Lifeboat for the Abandoned Animals

Visiting the Shelter

　We were able to visit the animal shelter “Lifeboat for the Abandoned Animals”.

The members of the team took the pictures with the permission from the shelter.

Outside the shelter

　As we went towards the shelter we could hear dogs barking. This is probably because they get afraid of unknown people. We still remember that they kept barking even when we went far away. The person in the shelter told us that the dogs which are barking will not bark to the staff they are used to. However, some people feel afraid of them so we think it is difficult for them to find a new home.

Measures taken for animals unlikely to get adopted

　As we mentioned, grown cats and dogs which are afraid of people are unlikely to get adopted, unlike kittens and puppies. When we visited the shelter many families wanted to adopt the little ones.

　When we got closer, it came towards us wagging its tail happily.

　The number of cats was way more than dogs. If the cats were siblings they would often be put in the same cage.

For cats, there was a room where we could interact with the cats who were grown up or scared.

　We could not touch them since they were afraid. However, we realized that the attraction of grown cats is satisfaction when the cat trusts you.

Questions We Asked

Q Why did you start this shelter?

　I have always loved animals and adopted pets at home. At first, we adopted one pet for a family member’s anniversary.

Q What is a difficulty are you facing?

　The number of animals in the shelter is so huge that I can only spend a few minutes on each.

Q How many cats and dogs are adopted each month?

　 Adding both cats and dogs, about 100 a month.

Q How many animals are there in this shelter?

　 100 dogs and 200 cats. 150 of cats are kittens.

Q How is this sheletr runned fainancially?

　 60% of the operating expenses are runned by donations by pet owners.