L'articolo OIPA Bulgaria promotes kindness and respect for animals through an educational event for children proviene da OIPA.

Around 500 people are estimated to have participated throughout the evening. Some attended the concert, others stopped by specifically to make a donation, while several participants joined with their pets.

The response from the local community was extremely positive, both during the event and on social media, with many people expressing their willingness to continue supporting the project.

More than 5,000 BAM raised for shelter dogs

Thanks to the generosity of those who participated, 5,220 BAM were raised through ticket donations alone.

The international GoFundMe campaign has also reached €1,072 and remains active, allowing supporters from outside Bosnia and Herzegovina to contribute to the initiative.

WagWag is also awaiting further contributions, including support announced by the Mayor of Banja Luka and several individuals who have pledged to help.

All funds raised will contribute to the construction of additional outdoor enclosures at the Banja Luka public shelter, giving more dogs the opportunity to spend time outside their kennels, move freely and benefit from sunlight, fresh air and environmental stimulation.

Building on the progress already achieved

The initiative follows the progress made in 2025, when seven outdoor enclosures were successfully constructed thanks to volunteers and donors.

For dogs that may spend months or even years in a shelter while waiting for adoption, access to these spaces can make a significant difference to their physical and psychological wellbeing, helping to reduce stress and encouraging natural behaviours.

The success of the concert represents another important step towards improving their daily lives and shows how cooperation between volunteers, citizens, institutions and international supporters can lead to concrete improvements for animals.

The fundraising campaign continues

Those wishing to support the project can still contribute through the international GoFundMe campaign:

Help shelter dogs in Bosnia experience the outdoors again

Every contribution will help  WagWag and OIPA continue expanding the outdoor areas available to dogs at the Banja Luka public shelter.

L'articolo Banja Luka stands with shelter dogs: around 500 people join OIPA Bosnia’s fundraising concert proviene da OIPA.

Dogs living in public shelters may spend months or even years waiting for a family. During this time, access to outdoor areas, natural light, fresh air and regular exercise is essential for protecting their physical and psychological wellbeing.

For this reason, UG WagWag, OIPA’s official representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina, is working to build additional outdoor enclosures for dogs housed in the public shelter of Banja Luka.

The initiative aims to offer more animals the opportunity to move freely, explore their surroundings and enjoy a healthier and more stimulating daily routine while waiting to be adopted.

Improving the lives of shelter dogs

UG WagWag works actively to protect animals in Bosnia and Herzegovina through sterilization programmes, public awareness initiatives and projects designed to improve shelter conditions.

Despite the continuous commitment of volunteers, the infrastructure currently available at the Banja Luka public shelter remains insufficient to meet the needs of all the dogs housed there.

Many animals have limited access to:

• outdoor movement and exercise;
• natural sunlight and fresh air;
• environmental stimulation;
• adequate space to express natural behaviours.

Long periods spent in confined or unstimulating environments can increase stress, frustration and anxiety, negatively affecting both the health and behaviour of shelter dogs.

The construction of outdoor enclosures has therefore become a key priority for OIPA’s local representative.

Seven outdoor enclosures built in 2025

Thanks to the support of volunteers and donors, seven outdoor enclosures were successfully constructed during 2025.

These spaces have already brought tangible improvements to the dogs’ quality of life, providing them with:

• more room to move and exercise;
• regular exposure to daylight and fresh air;
• better ventilation;
• increased environmental stimulation;
• reduced stress and behavioural frustration.

The goal is now to expand the project so that more dogs can benefit from these improved conditions.

Music and solidarity for the animals

To support the next phase of the project, UG WagWag is organizing a humanitarian concert in Banja Luka.

Event details

Date: Friday, 31 July 2026
Time: 8:00 p.m.
Location: New Amphitheatre near the Faculty of Law and the Faculty of Economics, Banja Luka
Performer: Rock Oktet
Minimum donation: 10 BAM

All proceeds raised during the concert will be dedicated to the construction of additional outdoor enclosures for dogs living in the public shelter.

The event brings together music, local participation and solidarity, demonstrating how community initiatives can generate practical and lasting improvements for vulnerable animals.

Why outdoor enclosures matter

For a shelter dog, an outdoor enclosure means far more than additional space.

It provides the opportunity to run, explore, interact with the surrounding environment and experience sunlight and fresh air. These activities support physical health, encourage natural behaviour and help reduce stress and anxiety.

For dogs facing a prolonged stay in a shelter, access to an outdoor area can make a significant difference to their daily lives, offering them greater dignity, comfort and wellbeing while they wait for adoption.

Support the campaign from anywhere in the world

Those who cannot attend the concert can still support the project through the international GoFundMe campaign:

Help shelter dogs in Bosnia experience the outdoors again

Every donation, regardless of its amount, contributes to the construction of another enclosure and helps provide more shelter dogs with access to movement, sunlight, fresh air and safer living conditions.

Through the work of OIPA’s representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina, local volunteers, citizens and international supporters can join forces to achieve concrete improvements for abandoned animals.

Support the campaign and help give shelter dogs in Banja Luka a healthier and more humane life.

L'articolo Help Shelter Dogs in Banja Luka: OIPA Bosnia Raises Funds for New Outdoor Enclosures proviene da OIPA.

Why this programme matters

The wellbeing of animals, people, and communities is deeply interconnected.

In many rural areas of Tanzania, limited access to veterinary services contributes to dog overpopulation, preventable diseases, and an increased risk of rabies transmission. These challenges can negatively affect both animal welfare and public health.

By working directly with young people, families, and their dogs, the programme seeks to create long-term change through education rather than intervention alone.

Learning through connection

At the heart of the programme is a simple idea: when children learn to understand, respect, and care for animals, they also develop important life skills.

Through positive reinforcement training, participants learn:

-Patience
-Responsibility
-Empathy
-Communication
-Respect for living beings

The relationship between a child and a dog becomes a pathway for learning, growth, and community engagement.

What happens on the ground

 

The programme combines several interconnected activities designed to improve both animal welfare and community wellbeing.

Positive Reinforcement Dog Training

Young people participate in practical training sessions alongside their dogs, learning humane handling techniques based on trust and cooperation.

Humane Education

Interactive educational activities help children and families understand animal welfare, responsible ownership, and the importance of compassion.

Community Awareness

Public awareness activities focus on rabies prevention, responsible dog ownership, and improving coexistence between people and animals.

Veterinary Care

Participating dogs can receive essential veterinary services, helping improve their health and welfare while supporting broader public health goals.

Caring for dogs, protecting communities

Veterinary outreach is an essential part of the programme.

Services may include:

-Rabies vaccination
-Sterilisation (spay/neuter)
-Basic health assessments
-Treatment of minor medical conditions

These interventions improve the lives of individual animals while helping reduce public health risks within the community.

Creating lasting change

The programme aims to create benefits that extend far beyond individual training sessions.

Through sustained engagement, the initiative seeks to:

-Improve the welfare of dogs
-Promote responsible ownership
-Reduce the risk of rabies transmission
-Strengthen human–animal relationships
-Increase community awareness
– Foster a culture of empathy and responsibility among young people

Upcoming Event

Join Our Online Event

Join us for a special online session introducing the Dog Training & Community Welfare Programme in Tanzania and learn how positive reinforcement dog training, humane education, and veterinary outreach can help build healthier and more compassionate communities.

During the event, Alpha Maisel, OIPA Representative in Tanzania will present the programme, its objectives, and the activities planned to improve animal welfare and promote responsible dog ownership in Mpwapwa.

Date: 26 June 2026
Time: 09:00 – 09:45 (EAT – Tanzania Time)
Format: Online

👉 Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83181222638?pwd=oXba4alyvFYqbuORUCwufYZZiR1Dt6.1

JOIN THE WEBINAR

L'articolo OIPA Tanzania Dog Training & Community Welfare Programme proviene da OIPA.

From the Streets to Safety

Many of the animals now living at the shelter were previously exposed to hunger, disease, extreme weather conditions and the constant dangers of road traffic.

Today, they have access to regular food, clean water, veterinary care and a secure environment where they can recover and live with dignity.

The shelter currently provides care for approximately 150 dogs and 20 cats, offering them a second chance and demonstrating that compassionate, community-driven solutions can make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable animals.

A Community Celebration

The inauguration brought together members of the local community, families, volunteers and animal welfare supporters in a day marked by hope and solidarity.

Children and young participants played a special role in the event by creating colourful artworks that were displayed throughout the shelter, symbolising a future built on compassion and respect for animals. Their participation highlighted the importance of education and awareness in fostering a culture of empathy towards all living beings.

As part of the celebration, certificates of participation were awarded to the young participants in recognition of their creativity, commitment and contribution to promoting animal welfare values within their community.

Addressing a Wider Challenge

The issue of stray animals remains a significant challenge in many parts of Morocco. Beyond concerns related to animal welfare, it is closely connected to public health, responsible population management and community well-being.

Projects such as this shelter demonstrate that sustainable solutions can be achieved through cooperation between local communities, animal welfare advocates and institutions. Providing immediate care to animals in need is essential, but long-term progress also requires education, responsible ownership, sterilisation programmes and increased public awareness.

Veterinarians and Animal Welfare Professionals Needed

As the shelter continues to grow and provide care for an increasing number of animals, access to veterinary expertise remains one of its most important needs.

OIPA Morocco is currently seeking veterinarians, veterinary technicians, veterinary nurses and animal health professionals interested in supporting future animal welfare initiatives, including sterilisation campaigns, veterinary outreach activities, preventive healthcare programmes and capacity-building efforts.

Professional support can make a significant difference in improving animal welfare standards and helping develop sustainable, long-term solutions for stray animal management.

If you are interested in collaborating, sharing expertise or supporting future veterinary initiatives in Morocco, we would be pleased to hear from you.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Caring for more than 170 animals requires continuous resources, including food, veterinary treatments, medicines, shelter maintenance and daily care.

If you would like to support this important initiative, you can contribute through a donation and help provide a safer future for stray animals in Morocco.

When making a donation please specify- Morocco Animal Shelter

DONATE NOW

DONATE NOW !

Veterinary Needed in Morocco !

OIPA Morocco is currently seeking veterinarians, veterinary technicians, veterinary nurses and animal health professionals from around the world who would like to support animal welfare initiatives in Morocco.

Whether you are interested in volunteering your expertise, providing technical support or collaborating on future projects, your contribution can make a meaningful difference.

To express your interest or learn more, please contact:

international@oipa.org

L'articolo A New Safe Haven for Stray Animals Opens in Morocco proviene da OIPA.

The initiative is built on a simple but powerful idea: every child deserves the opportunity to feel welcomed, valued, and included. For one evening, children who often face significant daily challenges are given the chance to simply enjoy being children, surrounded by activities designed to inspire happiness, curiosity, and connection.

In Târgu Mureș, the event brought together specialized schools, associations supporting children with disabilities, volunteers, local authorities, community organizations, educators, and inclusion specialists. Thanks to the collective efforts of all partners involved, the event was offered entirely free of charge, ensuring accessibility for all participating children and their families.

Throughout the evening, children enjoyed a wide variety of engaging activities, including creative workshops, face painting, puppet shows, dancing, interactive games, guided visits, and opportunities to interact with animals with love and compassio in a safe and educational environment. Each activity was carefully designed to encourage participation, build confidence, and create positive memories.

For OIPA Romania, Dream Night represented not only an opportunity to support social inclusion, but also a meaningful occasion to promote empathy, kindness, and respect for animals.

The activities coordinated by OIPA Romania and its partners attracted significant interest from visitors, demonstrating how animal welfare education can successfully complement initiatives focused on inclusion and community engagement. The event highlighted the strong connection between caring for animals and fostering empathy, responsibility, and respect for all living beings.

OIPA ETS warmly thanks all volunteers, educators, specialists, partner organizations, community members, and local institutions whose dedication, generosity, and enthusiasm contributed to the success of this initiative.

Special thanks go to the partner associations Canino Artis, Second Life, Blue Paws, and Alte Pfoten (Germany), whose collaboration helped make this event possible. We would also like to express our sincere appreciation to Monica Farcas, elementary school teacher; Ioana and the Mega Happy Events team; Klara Fulop, specialist in Special Psychopedagogy and Inclusion; Loredana Daria Sfiriac, actor and community supporter; Irina Lupu, kindergarten teacher; Ramona Negrușa, English teacher; and Tudor Teșcoveanu, architecture teacher and author of Născut din Țărână, for their commitment and valuable contribution to creating a memorable experience for the participating children and their families.

Their collective efforts helped transform Dream Night into a meaningful celebration of inclusion, compassion, and respect for animals, demonstrating the positive impact that can be achieved when communities work together towards a common goal.

L'articolo OIPA Romania Joins Dream Night Event, Bringing Inclusion, Joy and Compassion for Animals to Children Facing Daily Challenges proviene da OIPA.

The event created an important space for dialogue around a growing issue: the increasing exposure of women activists to online attacks, insults, and gender-based discrimination. Participants shared firsthand experiences, highlighting how digital violence is not limited to the online sphere but often has real consequences on personal safety, mental health, and daily life.

A key contribution came from Dr. Marija Kelber, who addressed the psychological impact of online violence and provided insights into how individuals can maintain emotional resilience in challenging digital environments. Her intervention helped frame the discussion within a broader understanding of how constant exposure to negativity can affect confidence, motivation, and public engagement.

Beyond the challenges, the webinar emphasized the importance of solidarity and mutual support. Participants identified common patterns in how women in animal protection are targeted online and exchanged strategies for responding to these situations, reinforcing the need for a stronger, more connected community.

This discussion highlighted a crucial message: women working to protect animals should not face intimidation or harassment for their commitment. The digital space must become a safer environment where activism can thrive without fear.

Watch the full recording of the webinar, now available below with English subtitles, to hear directly from the voices and experiences shared during this important discussion.

L'articolo OIPA Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Webinar: “Women Volunteers in the Digital Space” proviene da OIPA.

What the webinar will cover

• recognizing patterns of online harassment and digital violence
• understanding the gender dimension of hate speech
• distinguishing constructive criticism from personal attacks
• sharing experiences and strategies for responding
• strengthening solidarity and support among women volunteers

Who can participate

 Saturday, 7 March – 15:00 CET

Duration: 1 hour

Language: Serbian

L'articolo Join OIPA Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Webinar: “Women Volunteers in the Digital Space” on International Women’s Day proviene da OIPA.