I recently came across an article on CNN about a dog in Istanbul named Boji. Although the story of this public transportation loving dog is fascinating to say the least, I was more taken by the circumstances of how his wanderings of him are possible.
Can you imagine a large stray dog hopping on and off buses, trains and ferries without so much as raised eyebrows from police or security? But wait, don’t let that give you the idea that there are no laws against such a thing or that there is a lack of enforcement; in fact, it is quite the opposite.
Stray animals are actually protected by Turkish law. The city of Istanbul has a program designated for the protection and overseeing of the vast number of stray dogs and cats that roam the city. Food and water stations are provided. Basic wellness such as vaccines and spay and neuter services are provided as well as emergency and advanced care for injured animals.
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Imagine that. The more I read about the subject, the more amazed I became; envious, really.
We live in the richest country in the world. We consider ourselves to be an advanced, humane, compassionate society. Yet, here in our community and in cities and towns across the United States, it is a constant struggle to have our stray pets treated as anything other than nuisances.
It takes years of effort and debate to pass the simplest ordinances and laws protecting them. Getting financial support for the animal care programs from municipalities and governmental agencies is a tremendous battle.
For all our money and all our purported compassion for animals, we can’t seem to “walk the walk.”
In Istanbul they are working to solve their animal overpopulation by humane measures. They’re making the effort, investing time and money to fix the problem in planned, compassionate manner that will greatly reduce the population and prevent their stray dogs and cats from suffering.
Imagine that.
Shelter needs: Canned dog and cat food (pate’ style), hot dogs, cheese singles, peanut butter, soft dog treats, hand soap, paper towels, and gift cards for pet supply and grocery outlets.
Shelter-address: 1244 N. Delsea Drive in Vineland.
For information about fostering, visit https://southjerseyregionalanimalshelter.org/volunteer_main/foster.
To submit an adoption form for one of the Pets of the Week or another animal at the shelter, visit https://southjerseyregionalanimalshelter.org/forms/adoption-questionnaire.
To volunteer, email the volunteer coordinator at [email protected]
For SJRAS information, call (856) 691-1500 or visit southjerseyregionalanimalshelter.org or SJRASVineland on Facebook.
DOGS OF THE WEEK
Glenn is one of those special pups that just pulls at your heart. He is frightened at having landed in an animal shelter, but once he gets out of the building and into the play yard he is amazing! Glenn is fun, sweet and affectionate. Although he flinches at times as if he has been hit by humans in the past, every day that Glenn is with us he learns more about good people and trust. When he feels safe, he shows his goofy, comical side of him and just melts your heart. If you are looking to adopt a good dog that just needs a loving forever home then Glenn is your boy. You will be rewarded with years of love and devotion from a very special pup.
Millie is a great pup! She is an adorable 3-year-old, medium-sized mix breed. Millie is well mannered, smart and fun. She has it all, good looks, personality and a good heart. This great dog is just waiting for a loving, forever home.
Hank is a friendly, 3-year-old pit bull terrier. This solid, chunky guy loves nothing more than to lie in the grass and have his belly rubbed. Come in and meet Hank, you may just find your new best friend.
Sadly, Stella came to us in seriously poor condition. She was not much more than her skin and bones and flies had been painfully chewing on her ears. Somehow this darling girl kept her sweet, loving disposition of her despite the neglect she suffered. Stella is gentle and very friendly. She likes to chase after balls and loves treats. She even knows sit. Stella has been gaining weight and basking in the attention and love she has been receiving from shelter staff, but what she really needs is a loving, forever home. She is a 3-year-old pit mix with loads of love to give. Stella will continue to need good nutrition to gain back all of her weight from her and the hair on her ears from her should grow back. She is a good dog in need of a second chance.
kane is a handsome, 1-year-old pit bull terrier that is waiting and hoping for a loving forever home. Meet Kane, he may be your perfect match.
Aubrey is a darling, 8-week-old pit mix puppy who is waiting for someone special to love. Sadly, she and her litter mates came to the shelter at 4-weeks-old in very poor condition. They went right into a wonderful foster home where they received plenty of good nutrition and love. They are now beautiful, healthy puppies who are ready for their next adventure, a loving, forever home!
Chris is a very sweet 8-week-old pit mix puppy who is both lively and cuddly. Sadly, he and his litter mates came to the shelter at 4-weeks-old in very poor condition. They went right into a wonderful foster home, where they received plenty of good nutrition and love. They are now beautiful, healthy puppies who are ready for their next adventure, a loving, forever home!
CATS OF THE WEEK
Young Artemis wants to show you how wonderful black cats are!
handsome dracula wants to be your new best friend.
Charlie is just waiting for you to come and take him home!
Pretty judy would love to snuggle with you.
Shiney is a sweet boy, who is being overlooked. Come in and meet this gem.
Tamara is hoping you won’t be able to resist her adorable little face.
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