Being a rescue organization isn’t just about finding forever homes for homeless dogs. It’s about being an advocate for all dogs and pet companions. We know how important pets are to us, and what a significant role they have in our lives. We at Free Korea Dogs often use the motto “compassion knows no borders”, and we strive to live up to that standard. We understand it is impossible for us to save every single dog, and the dogs who come into our rescue are only a very small percentage of dogs in need. These other dogs are no less worthy of our help, and while we often have to come to terms that we cannot help every dog in ways we would like, we will always do as much as we possibly can.
Supplying Provisions to Korean Shelters:
In the past few years, we have made it a point to support like minded community members in small ways and will continue to do so whenever possible. Since our founding, we have helped shelters in Korea with securing a variety of supplies needed, whether it be new food bowls, leashes, collars, harnesses, winter coats, food, or winter provisions. Sometimes, flight volunteers are not only for dogs, they help us transport our supplies as their excess baggage. Other times, we have items shipped directly from vendors to shelters, or ship them directly from right here in Toronto.
Respite For At-Risk Community Members:
We’ve also seen the effects on pet ownership since the onset of the pandemic. On one hand, we experienced firsthand the surge of aspiring dog owners as people found themselves spending more time at home. On the other hand, we witnessed loss of livelihoods as economies suffered, leading to difficult times for some. This year, we decided we would share our supplies and donations with a local community service organization in order to support low-income pet owners and those experiencing food insecurity. Every harness, bag of treats, or box of training pads we were able to provide would allow pet owners to put the funds saved towards paying their bills and meeting their own personal needs.
Supporting Other Rescue Organizations:
As a rescue charity organization that is sustained by generosity of donations, we know that working with limited resources requires one to be resourceful in some ways, but even then, we sometimes find ourselves in situations where we simply cannot make use of some items as much as we would like to. And that’s ok, because we know there are other organizations that would make them worthwhile. Whether providing blankets, extra food, treats, or toys , any rescue organization that helps animals is important, and supporting them with extra supplies is one small way of improving animal welfare together.
Compassion knows no borders in terms of lives, either. We have extended our support to organizations representing not only dogs, but also cat and small animal rescues, as well as farm animal sanctuaries. Many dog supplies can often be repurposed for essential and enrichment items for other species. All that is needed is a little creativity and resourcefulness.
Community and Collaboration:
Rescue work truly requires collaboration in order to succeed. In the end, rescue organizations are all working towards a common goal, and working and supporting each other is the key to success. Free Korean Dogs could not have provided such support on our own either. It was a collaboration of our community and supporters. Every step forward we make towards improving animal welfare is a step accomplished together. No organization is more entitled or important than the other. It is an honor to be at the receiving end of generosity and an even greater privilege to have the ability to give back. Strong communities are the result of a collaborative effort, and we are proud to be a part of that societal fabric.
Written by Sara Liao, Board of Directors & Adoption Manager
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