New beginning for the abandoned

Abu Dhabi: Strays of Abu Dhabi (SAD) was set up last year to get abandoned pets off the streets and help find loving and caring homes for them.

Kim Dumas and Lissie Conroy, the founders of SAD, said there was a "big need" for such a charity organisation.

SAD is not the only non-profit pet charity organisation in Abu Dhabi; there is also Feline Friends.

But SAD is different in that they help all types of pets ranging from hamsters, rabbits, birds, tortoises and dogs.

Both women took the initial decision to launch SAD to help homes for stray dogs, but found there are many other animals which need care.

SAD members also visit schools and give talks to children on animal awareness and against cruelty.

"I take my own dog and cat with me to classrooms to help encourage children to be friendly with them and to educate them how peaceful and innocent an animal can be," said Conroy.

Some schoolchildren, brownies and cubs are brought to SAD and witness a live operation on a stuffed animal.

This is to help educate children what animals go through at times.

Contribution

Each child contributes Dh10 to the organisation and in return receives a mini-badge with a small sad-looking dog drawn on it.

Family events are also held to raise funds and find homes for some of the abandoned pets.

These events take place twice annually, with the 'Dog Day Afternoons', at the Corniche Breakers Club or the American Veterinary Kennels. The day includes activities, fun events and is an ideal networking place for like-minded people.

Yearly fashion shows are also a way of raising funds. SAD recently held its second fashion show where 55 staff members from the American and British Veterinary Clinic, their families, friends and children volunteered to model, work behind the scenes and help sell tickets.

The show was advertised among hospitals and schools. It managed to raise Dh6,566 at the last year's fashion show.

The second annual charity ball and silent auction is planned for late January 2008.

SAD does not have a physical location but operated from the American Veterinary Clinic.

"It provides space for five stray dogs and space for other small animals," said Dumas.

Conroy told Gulf News, "Working in veterinary has brought to light the number of pets that have been abandoned."

The funds raised pay for the costs involved in caring for the rescued pets, veterinary care, shelter and food. Since the initiation of SAD, over 100 animals have been saved from the streets and 50 animals have been re-homed.

For more information log on to www.straysofabudhabi.com

SAD has close links with Qatar Cat Coalition in Doha.