Neglected animals living in a small Kurdish town in the Middle East can always count on an extraordinary rescuer. Her name is Havin, a young woman and animal rights advocate, who is also founder of a local association.
From an early age, this extraordinary and passionate activist has devoted her life to the care of stray cats, dogs, and any animal in need she stumbles upon. But the region where she operates, together with a veterinary doctor and a handful of volunteers, is still affected by war, poverty, food insecurity and political instability.
For the four million people living in this part of the world, and the millions of animals who share their destiny, life continues to be gruelling; the region, due to unresolved political and military issues, remains difficult to access and supplies are hard to come by for people, let alone for the animals.
Despite the daily challenges and the hostility of many locals who fear animals and see them as a nuisance in their harsh battle for daily survival, Havin continues to care for cats and dogs by providing food - sometimes her own - shelter, vaccinations and any medical assistance she can offer. When the donations allow and the necessary medical supplies get into the area, the veterinary doctor in the team sterilises cats and dogs before releasing them into the streets.
But there is still much more to be done: hundreds of animals in need of food, flea and tick treatments, vaccinations for rabies and other fatal diseases and sterilisations. This small group of courageous and tireless animal lovers cannot do it without our help.
Please consider donating whatever you can to OIPA International's dedicated fundraiser for Havin and her animals.
No donation is too small and it means everything for this small group of heroes and the animals they devote their lives to.
