As 2025 draws to an end, I would like to take this opportunity to update you all on what has been a very challenging yet meaningful year for Live PAWS . This year has been particularly difficult financially, with ever-increasing costs for food, veterinary care, utilities, and the general running of the refuge.
It is during times like these that we are especially grateful to our sponsors and donors. Your support comes in many forms, financial contributions, the gift of your time, volunteers, donations to our charity shops, and practical items such as towels and sheets for our puppies.
The list truly goes on. Without your continued generosity and support, we would simply not be able to care for the many animals that rely on us.
Sadly, we have seen more abandoned dogs this year than last, along with a worrying increase in abuse cases. Many of these situations are handled quietly behind the scenes, but they require significant time, care, and resources.
In addition, we took on 60 extra dogs from the adjacent refuge, Esperanza, a commitment that further stretched our capacity. Currently, 40 dogs are in foster care.
These are dogs that are too old, too unwell, or have ongoing medical issues that mean rehoming is not an option, and they will remain under our care. Thanks to microchipping, we were able to reunite 11 dogs with their owners this year.
We also treated 14 dogs for heartworm (Filaria), a debilitating disease that requires intensive treatment, and monitoring. Despite the challenges, there have been many successes.
This year, we found homes for 198 dogs, 59 of whom were adopted abroad through our partner associations. We would like to sincerely thank everyone involved in helping us achieve this.
In total, we had 258 admissions, 106 were puppies, again an increase from last year. Two months ago, the refuge was at full capacity, with 102 dogs in the Live PAWS kennels and 60 from Esperanza.
Thankfully, this number has now reduced to 130 dogs currently in kennels. When I look back over the year, I am incredibly proud of our team.
Despite every difficulty, they have worked tirelessly for the animals. When I walk into the Refuge and see dogs that are happy and healthy, I am reminded why we all go that extra mile, because their welfare always comes first.
We know that the New Year will bring new challenges. Abandonment, often involving dogs in a neglected and distressing state, will continue to be our biggest concern.
There have been times when my team and I have shed tears when some of these broken souls arrive at the refuge. We shed tears again when they leave, this time knowing they are physically and mentally well, heading off to new homes and new lives.
In those moments, we know our job has been done. Thank you to everyone who has stood by Live PAWS this year.
Your support makes everything we do possible. Mark , Live PAWS President.
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