7 pups who can be sterilised soon, in about 2 months time or so. Preparing for their sterilisation, we hereby ask for your support towards the expenses. Will post their pix later.
Email us at projectjkteam@yahoo.com.sg for more info on how you can sponsor the sterilisation of the pups.
5 of them are very friendly ones, and would possibly make a good family pet. But this is ONLY STRICTLY for reliable, trustworthy and experienced families of local breeds. I'm sorry but no first-timers who are wanting to 'try out a dog'.
Dogs are not for trial. On another matter, neither should any dog owner 'try out' and breed their dogs just to see how it is like. Besides being juvenile in thinking (I guess you will never think of 'trying out' and have a baby just to see how it is like?), it is socially irresponsible and adding on to an already over-populated pet industry.
And for parents who are thinking of getting a dog for their kids to 'let them learn how to take care of another life', make sure you are always there to guide and teach them the right ways of interaction and most importantly, inculcate a sense of RESPECT for another life form. If, as a parent, you yourself are unable to commit your time and care towards another living being, then please do NOT bring home an animal who may be subject, not to abuse, but maybe neglect when the family has no time nor patience for him/her.
It is such impulse buying that has our pet farms churn out hundreds of pups each month, filling up a fake demand that is not lasting, and instead fills up animal pounds and shelters faced with the hard decision to put fully living, healthy animals down for a logistical reason of lack of space, out of no fault of the pounds, but rather out of an innocent, wide-eyed appeal from your kid pulling on your shirt...."Daddy, can I have a puppy?"
May 15, 2007
Thank you to all supporters of Junior & Ginne,
we've raised sufficient donations for their stay at ALL till Nov. Feel free to email us at projectjkteam@yahoo.com.sg if you will like to see our accounts. (not a very impressive account though we believe that we shall always have enough for our needs!)
Junior and Ginne are very good candidates for adoption as they have been accustomed to homely environments and close human contact. In fact, they crave human touch. Wherever Junior may be when we arrive, we just gotta call out in a normal voice, "Junior...."....and in a flash, she will be weaving through big and small dogs, all obstacles...and pounce on you in such a great big hug people watching will think we haven't seen each other in years!!
Dogs never forget.
At times, I think they will. That they may not recognise me after some weeks, months...but incredibly, they always do. They smell us out and you can't hide your smell from those canine powers.
Ginne was in a particularly needy mood on Sat. She came and stayed around us and then both had their baths. They'll smell good, if only for just a few days!
When we were leaving, Junior was calm about it but Ginne was not about to let us go. While we were waiting in the carpark, she whined and cried for some minutes. Passers-by all had a pitying look on their faces when they hear her cries.
To Junior and Ginne's former owners, and to all potential pet owners, THINK and then THINK HARD AGAIN before you adopt/get a pet. Unfair is a total understatement if you should ever allow your home pet to end up in a shelter, or worse, on the streets.
The animals will do better had you not taken them in at all. Spare them your empty promises.
Junior and Ginne are very good candidates for adoption as they have been accustomed to homely environments and close human contact. In fact, they crave human touch. Wherever Junior may be when we arrive, we just gotta call out in a normal voice, "Junior...."....and in a flash, she will be weaving through big and small dogs, all obstacles...and pounce on you in such a great big hug people watching will think we haven't seen each other in years!!
Dogs never forget.
At times, I think they will. That they may not recognise me after some weeks, months...but incredibly, they always do. They smell us out and you can't hide your smell from those canine powers.
Ginne was in a particularly needy mood on Sat. She came and stayed around us and then both had their baths. They'll smell good, if only for just a few days!
When we were leaving, Junior was calm about it but Ginne was not about to let us go. While we were waiting in the carpark, she whined and cried for some minutes. Passers-by all had a pitying look on their faces when they hear her cries.
To Junior and Ginne's former owners, and to all potential pet owners, THINK and then THINK HARD AGAIN before you adopt/get a pet. Unfair is a total understatement if you should ever allow your home pet to end up in a shelter, or worse, on the streets.
The animals will do better had you not taken them in at all. Spare them your empty promises.
May 13, 2007
For any voluntary organisation,
or any organisation, for that matter, communication is part and parcel, and serves a mightily important role in organisation cohesion, in volunteer relationships and permeates through every fabric of our relationships with humans.
And dogs.
Where communication is concerned, good communication is mandatory, or else you fail communicating well with those who work with you or those you want to save. The values on which your organisation is founded are at stake.
Communication does not come at the expense of undermining like-minded individuals who fight for the same cause and who intend to achieve the same objectives as you. Good communication takes place with integrity and accountability. Communication is unretractable -- once you communicate whether in print or verbally, you can't undo the consequence your message yields on others.
And good communication does not exist on baselessness but is supported by truths, by evidences, by agreements with others. Good communication is not a unidirectional process but takes place in two, three or more ways and directions, mutually beneficial to all.
We often hear of the unreported truth. These days, we are beginning to see fabricated news, not only verbally, but more pitifully, in print. Do not be afraid to question what the media say, go forth to challenge the veracity of the information you see in print. There's nothing flawed in a correction done constructively.
Good communcation is imperative. In reducing volunteers turnover rates, in ensuring good employee relations, in getting things done, in securing the trust of the public, in giving more hope for the subjects you want to save.
Don't lose sight of what you are called to do, don't lose sight of what you want to achieve. For our animals.
And dogs.
Where communication is concerned, good communication is mandatory, or else you fail communicating well with those who work with you or those you want to save. The values on which your organisation is founded are at stake.
Communication does not come at the expense of undermining like-minded individuals who fight for the same cause and who intend to achieve the same objectives as you. Good communication takes place with integrity and accountability. Communication is unretractable -- once you communicate whether in print or verbally, you can't undo the consequence your message yields on others.
And good communication does not exist on baselessness but is supported by truths, by evidences, by agreements with others. Good communication is not a unidirectional process but takes place in two, three or more ways and directions, mutually beneficial to all.
We often hear of the unreported truth. These days, we are beginning to see fabricated news, not only verbally, but more pitifully, in print. Do not be afraid to question what the media say, go forth to challenge the veracity of the information you see in print. There's nothing flawed in a correction done constructively.
Good communcation is imperative. In reducing volunteers turnover rates, in ensuring good employee relations, in getting things done, in securing the trust of the public, in giving more hope for the subjects you want to save.
Don't lose sight of what you are called to do, don't lose sight of what you want to achieve. For our animals.
May 12, 2007
One of our girls
with Scruffy was knocked by a passing car on Thursday. We didn't see what happened but the car must have hit just her hind legs cos she was seen dragging her hinds and whining in pain that evening and yesterday evening.
As we knew that we won't be able to get her (she and golden gal and Scruffy has been out of reach even after knowing them for more than a year - the most Scruffy would come near me and eat from my hand warily and sometimes allows me to give her little scratches, but to reach out and hold/leash her is still impossible), I contact L to get some help. I think we may have made a good contact today who could help us with our remaining hard-to-get strays.
When we say our girl just now, she had somehow recovered much and looked almost normal. She could walk and run slowly about, though you can see she is landing very gingerly on her painful hinds and now and then she'll lie down and lick her aching parts.
But she could sense we were there to catch her to the vet and very soon hid herself among the bushes and under the containers. There was no way we could reach her today and we had to give up as we have to go on our route.
As we knew that we won't be able to get her (she and golden gal and Scruffy has been out of reach even after knowing them for more than a year - the most Scruffy would come near me and eat from my hand warily and sometimes allows me to give her little scratches, but to reach out and hold/leash her is still impossible), I contact L to get some help. I think we may have made a good contact today who could help us with our remaining hard-to-get strays.
When we say our girl just now, she had somehow recovered much and looked almost normal. She could walk and run slowly about, though you can see she is landing very gingerly on her painful hinds and now and then she'll lie down and lick her aching parts.
But she could sense we were there to catch her to the vet and very soon hid herself among the bushes and under the containers. There was no way we could reach her today and we had to give up as we have to go on our route.
May 5, 2007
Compared to other asian countries,
Singapore is sanitised.
I was travelling on the roads just now and scanning the night scene. Our streets are so clean, the landscape so neat, our buildings so orderly - almost every scene looks pre-planned. Safe. Similar. Expected.
We've got a comment from someone in Bangalore who is helping the strays over there. I didn't want to look at her blog initially cos I can just imagine what I will see. Situations in other asian countries make our strays look almost pampered.
Somehow I already know what is happening in countries like India, Thailand, Philippines ... very similar stories are being played out. Similar for the simple fact that many of their people are living in less than desirable situations.
In a country where its people are not well taken care of, so will their animals be subject to sub-standard treatment.
How can we expect a family living in poverty to care for the stray dog/cat along their street? How can we expect a man who is struggling to keep alive to spare any kind thoughts to that injured/starving mangey dog at the dumps? How should we tell a person who has no money in his pocket that he should not catch and cull a stray dog to earn a few coins?
Every single person who hurts an animal (intentionally or otherwise) is a person needing help. A person of sound mind and a full spirit will never cause harm to a fellow human being or another sentient being.
"Save the people and they will save the animals".
I've heard this wisdom preached to me and I constantly remind myself of its truth. We are not here on earth only to "Save the whales", "Save the sharks", not even "Save the dogs". Yes. This is what we are doing and what we do is understood only by those who share our heart for animals.
We feel a pull in our hearts towards these needy animals we encounter and we feel the anger and bitterness towards people who inflicted unneccesary pain on them.
It is all well and good. But as we pass our days, let us remind ourselves that the only truly lasting way we can change our world for the better - is not by saving that 1 more dog, that 1 more shark, that 1 more seal.
We are changing our world - for the better - by saving that 1 more person. By passing on kindness to 1 more human being. By opening up his/her heart and eyes to the beauty of human nature. By offering 1 more person the hope that he/she matters. That there is another better way to live. Another more peaceful way to co-exist with other living beings on earth.
Cos before you can ask a person to treat an animal kindly, you must first be able and willing to treat him kindly.
It is not that easy, I know. I myself am learning to walk the path of kindness - not only to our animals, for that will be so myopic and hypocritical - but more so towards the next human being I encounter.
For what will we gain by saving thousands of animals in our lifetime if we cannot change 1 single person's heart and bring him to our side?
The animals you care for are subject to the humans around them. If we really want a better world for the animals, let us try to make the world that little better for our needy people. I won't want to be someone who loses sight of the needs of my fellow human beings for my self-proclaimed cause of saving the animals.
A person living a fulfilled life, a person who has his needs met, a person who is fairly treated, will NOT harm another person or an animal.
Save the people and they will save the animals.
I was travelling on the roads just now and scanning the night scene. Our streets are so clean, the landscape so neat, our buildings so orderly - almost every scene looks pre-planned. Safe. Similar. Expected.
We've got a comment from someone in Bangalore who is helping the strays over there. I didn't want to look at her blog initially cos I can just imagine what I will see. Situations in other asian countries make our strays look almost pampered.
Somehow I already know what is happening in countries like India, Thailand, Philippines ... very similar stories are being played out. Similar for the simple fact that many of their people are living in less than desirable situations.
In a country where its people are not well taken care of, so will their animals be subject to sub-standard treatment.
How can we expect a family living in poverty to care for the stray dog/cat along their street? How can we expect a man who is struggling to keep alive to spare any kind thoughts to that injured/starving mangey dog at the dumps? How should we tell a person who has no money in his pocket that he should not catch and cull a stray dog to earn a few coins?
Every single person who hurts an animal (intentionally or otherwise) is a person needing help. A person of sound mind and a full spirit will never cause harm to a fellow human being or another sentient being.
"Save the people and they will save the animals".
I've heard this wisdom preached to me and I constantly remind myself of its truth. We are not here on earth only to "Save the whales", "Save the sharks", not even "Save the dogs". Yes. This is what we are doing and what we do is understood only by those who share our heart for animals.
We feel a pull in our hearts towards these needy animals we encounter and we feel the anger and bitterness towards people who inflicted unneccesary pain on them.
It is all well and good. But as we pass our days, let us remind ourselves that the only truly lasting way we can change our world for the better - is not by saving that 1 more dog, that 1 more shark, that 1 more seal.
We are changing our world - for the better - by saving that 1 more person. By passing on kindness to 1 more human being. By opening up his/her heart and eyes to the beauty of human nature. By offering 1 more person the hope that he/she matters. That there is another better way to live. Another more peaceful way to co-exist with other living beings on earth.
Cos before you can ask a person to treat an animal kindly, you must first be able and willing to treat him kindly.
It is not that easy, I know. I myself am learning to walk the path of kindness - not only to our animals, for that will be so myopic and hypocritical - but more so towards the next human being I encounter.
For what will we gain by saving thousands of animals in our lifetime if we cannot change 1 single person's heart and bring him to our side?
The animals you care for are subject to the humans around them. If we really want a better world for the animals, let us try to make the world that little better for our needy people. I won't want to be someone who loses sight of the needs of my fellow human beings for my self-proclaimed cause of saving the animals.
A person living a fulfilled life, a person who has his needs met, a person who is fairly treated, will NOT harm another person or an animal.
Save the people and they will save the animals.
May 3, 2007
While on the road,
it is very intriguing to see the multitudes of our beautiful local dogs. They come in a myriad of shapes, sizes, colours. But one thing remains constant - their fierce loyalty - be it to their family pack or to a human being they've accepted as friend and leader.
Loyal brothers
We have shared earlier, Project JK started out from the sole desire to help another fellow human being, an elderly lady who has been on the streets, looking after the strays for half her life, a good 30 years. Isn't it time she enjoys the autumn of her life?
We had wanted to offer her that gift, the precious time of our short life on earth where she can rest her mind and soul knowing that her dogs are safely off the streets.
However, we over-estimated the dimension of the issue.
Our wish then was to sterilise and relocate all the dogs along this stray feeder's route to Noah's Ark in Johor. We targeted to move about 50 dogs. As of today, we have sterilised 38 dogs and relocated 18 dogs to Noah's Ark. Out of these 18, 3 had passed on (Mommy Dog, Romeo and Charcoal) and one escaped (Abbie, now staying with his own pack around the perimeters of Noah's Ark).
We are unable to relocate anymore dogs to Noah's Ark as we have not been able to garner sponsorships for all our dogs there. Monetary support for our 14 dogs there come in irregularly and it is not easy to have a committed supporter willing to sponsor a dog each month for the rest of the next 10-15 years. We understand that. Thus, we have stopped relocating anymore dogs.
Anyone who've spent some time on the streets, in the farm areas, will see the reality of our stray issue. It is impossible to rectify the stray issue under a come and go 'project'. Quite impossible. And Project JK was never set out to eradicate the stray issue in any particular area. If that can be done, many areas would be settled by now way before our involvement. We declare that we are unable to. What Project JK started out for can be read from the very start of this blog.
Pregnant female out of our reach.
In a pack of say 5 stray dogs, you will be fortunate if 1 or 2 of the female dogs are friendly enough to be caught and sterilised. But in reality, you may only be able to get the males but the females remain out of reach. No matter how long you have fed them. And it only takes 1 female to be pregnant and your numbers of sterilised vs unsterilised dogs will very soon even out again.
The unreachables.
How then can we say that our area has almost been done. It is not. Far from it. In a seemingly manageable area, there are still forested areas with ample hiding place for dogs we may not even have encountered during the past years. Puppies born and dogs dumped. It has been stated that unless a area is more than 70% sterilised, if not, in a short span of 1 year, the stray numbers will bounce back again.
How then can we say that our area has almost been done. It is not. Far from it. In a seemingly manageable area, there are still forested areas with ample hiding place for dogs we may not even have encountered during the past years. Puppies born and dogs dumped. It has been stated that unless a area is more than 70% sterilised, if not, in a short span of 1 year, the stray numbers will bounce back again.
Talking about financial support. Project JK has been running somewhat like an independent entity. We are not a registered society. Thus we are legally not allowed to solicit funds from the public. When we started out, we partnered Noah's Ark and was raising funds under their umbrella - the funds raised for Project JK was then channelled to our dogs in our areas of care. We appreciate that partnership as it enabled us to garner much needed support for needy dogs like Abbie (severe mange), Ming Ming (hit-and-run), Lucas (abandoned).
It was mentioned in the Dec06/Jan07 newsletter of Noah's Ark Cares that Noah's Ark Cares "will be winding down Project JK by end of this year (2006) as most of the animals have been sterilised but more importantly, we (Noah's Ark Cares) have been approached by several caregivers at Punggol and Jurong to help in their sterilisation efforts..."
From now, Project JK will manage our own fundraising for cases that come along our way. For dogs requiring boarding at established facilities, we will request for donations to be made out to that boarding facility. Similarly for dogs requiring veterinary care, cheques can be made to that vet clinic. For cash donations, we will accept from those supporters who have been following through with us and understand intrinsically what we do.
We are not the only people who are perservering on the road for the welfare of our strays, there are many out there, silently doing their bit which matters so much more than mere talk and discussions on what is right or wrong. Support them if you come to know about them. Lift their spirits where they may have been misunderstood for what they do.
Where there is a need, go meet it. When you witness something improper, try to resolve it, else report it to the police. Do not procrastinate or ponder.
Support any animal welfare societies out there who have demonstated their heart for the needy animals they have set out to rescue, heal and rehome. Many have done a wonderful job for our animals and they deserve all your support.
Support any animal welfare societies out there who have demonstated their heart for the needy animals they have set out to rescue, heal and rehome. Many have done a wonderful job for our animals and they deserve all your support.
In the heart of true giving, no pie is too small to share.
I've got visitors today!
Yes, Herbie and Helios visited us at the SKC this noon, what a good break for the day. :) As usual, Herbie took a look around the office, judged it comfy and nice and ... proceeded to do the famous Herbie stunt .......... "nua-ing"... :) He made himself real comfortable right in the middle of the living area, totally oblivious to his little bro's antics and our prodding. He was happy to simply bum around till it was time to go!
Helios was being the pup that he is, happily chewing the gnaw bone and playing a bit of fetch. He has a pretty serious face ya? And we think that his head has not caught up with his ears yet, ha! Some think he looks like a cocker spaniel. :)
Both these bros are simply sweethearts. They make your day. I pray for more happy families like this.
Both these bros are simply sweethearts. They make your day. I pray for more happy families like this.
Pedigree blind
There is something about what makes a dog -- a dog is a dog is a dog. Dogs, like humans, are sentient beings on all accounts of nature and nurture. We love a dog for his panting tongue, for the tail that wags in emotional response, for his fluffy, furry coat that brushes against your legs, for his doe-eyed looks, for his perked-up ears, for his whines, barks and growls... for his lying down, belly-up, in all submission to a life you HAVE in control.
A dog is a dog is a dog.
And the media are splattered with literature of dogs donning shades, in dyed fur, with painted nails, in positions 'orchestrated' by people... clamped between trees, riding on a tricycle, somersaulting in mid-air... and in all things imposed by humans.
A dog is a dog is a dog.
So look beyond the media representations of our animals, our dogs. What differencs are there between a pure breed dog couched in luxurious domesticity and a street dog rummaging rubbish for food? Have we been blind to what is intrinsically a dog? Have we been blind to their pedigrees? Blind to the tricks they performed? Their performativity in public spaces? Then again, are we even sure about what makes a dog?
A dog is a dog is a dog.
And the media are splattered with literature of dogs donning shades, in dyed fur, with painted nails, in positions 'orchestrated' by people... clamped between trees, riding on a tricycle, somersaulting in mid-air... and in all things imposed by humans.
A dog is a dog is a dog.
So look beyond the media representations of our animals, our dogs. What differencs are there between a pure breed dog couched in luxurious domesticity and a street dog rummaging rubbish for food? Have we been blind to what is intrinsically a dog? Have we been blind to their pedigrees? Blind to the tricks they performed? Their performativity in public spaces? Then again, are we even sure about what makes a dog?
May 1, 2007
Lost JRT - Fifi
Name of Dog : Fifi (Female/3 years old)
Type : Jack Russell Terrier
Date Lost : 3 April 2007, at about 11.15 am
Location : along Serangoon Ave 3 and Serangoon Central Drive
Colour : White with light brown patches
Type : Jack Russell Terrier
Date Lost : 3 April 2007, at about 11.15 am
Location : along Serangoon Ave 3 and Serangoon Central Drive
Colour : White with light brown patches
Description : Wearing a red collar with a steel tag with owner's HP and address
Microchipped
Microchipped
Last seen – Witnesses claimed that she saw Fifi and that she was nearly knocked down by a car. Dog was not hurt. Driver did come out of car to comfort dog and said that he/she will bring dog to see a vet.
* If you have seen a dog who looks like Fifi, please contact us at projectjkteam@yahoo.com.sg or tel: 9090-8592.
The strange thing is that Fifi is wearing her red tag with owner's details and all, so anyone who found her would know how to contact her owner. (unless the tag had somehow dropped out and the person who found her might not know about microchipping and that any found pet can be brought to a vet to be scanned for microchip and owner's details).
If you see Fifi, please contact us immediately. Thank you.
Some shots from the SKC Companion Dog Show, 29 April, Expo Hall 3A
We had more than 40 dogs in all taking part in the 4 different events under the Singapore Kennel Club's Companion Dog Show: (1) Best Kept Dog, (2) Speediest 4-legs, (3) Champion for A Day, (4) Best Trick in the House.
Here are some quick shots of the speediest 4-legs and winners of the Best Trick. Will post more when we get the pix from our photographer.
Do email to the SKC at skclub@pacific.net.sg if you have some cool doggy games which we can include for our next Companion Dog Show in August.
Do email to the SKC at skclub@pacific.net.sg if you have some cool doggy games which we can include for our next Companion Dog Show in August.
Also, do share with SKC your ideas of doggy events/outings/forums etc... which you would like to see being organised. The SKC will be most glad to incorporate more meaningful, fun and educational events for all our companion dogs - to share the joy of our doggy companions while promoting responsible dog ownership and advancing canine interests and its values.
Look forward to the August show!
Look forward to the August show!
April 26, 2007
Yes, Sparky has been found.
Sparky was returned to us on Sunday after a 3 weeks search. As this case was a police case, we chose not to update it until the case is closed.
There was suspicion that Sparky was stolen from Pearl's Hill and passed onto someone in the fish farm as the police had been already alerted.
The person who later took Sparky from the fish farm then kept him for 2 weeks before contacting us to return him. The circumstances of Sparky being 'lost', then found on the farm, then taken by a couple, and finally returned to us - the circumstances were a bit fishy....
The clues and news that we heard were also pretty convoluted, but the later news that reached us were clearer and the jigsaw pieces fell into place. I would say we already knew what actually happened, who did it.
We knew there would be a lack of concrete evidence, coupled with the police's obvious lack of interest, and most importantly, now that Sparky is safely back with his owner, we have let this case drop.
But with the information gathered from this incident, we will be watching some people and some areas very closely.
There was suspicion that Sparky was stolen from Pearl's Hill and passed onto someone in the fish farm as the police had been already alerted.
The person who later took Sparky from the fish farm then kept him for 2 weeks before contacting us to return him. The circumstances of Sparky being 'lost', then found on the farm, then taken by a couple, and finally returned to us - the circumstances were a bit fishy....
The clues and news that we heard were also pretty convoluted, but the later news that reached us were clearer and the jigsaw pieces fell into place. I would say we already knew what actually happened, who did it.
We knew there would be a lack of concrete evidence, coupled with the police's obvious lack of interest, and most importantly, now that Sparky is safely back with his owner, we have let this case drop.
But with the information gathered from this incident, we will be watching some people and some areas very closely.
As my counterpart appealed below
for a caregiver for a year, I am fully aware of the varying responses this might garner. Not everyone understands the mentality of stray feeders. Some may even think they are 'crazy'. Others may even think they cause or perpetuate the problem of strays.
I have chose not to question anyone's actions anymore. Not even their intentions. I wonder, yes I do, but to question and debate as to why they are doing what they do, it is a waste of time.
There are people who say that there are so many people out there who need help, who need sustenance, what are these groups of people spending time and money on animals? Well, I say to those people, well and good, if your heart feels deeply for the needy people out there, go out there and DO your bit for them. Are you offering a part of your life to these needy people you proclaim about?
Each of us is born with a different passion. You are called to different purposes in life. And you know it. There are just some areas you find yourself keep coming back to. That you are fired up for. That brings you both pain and joy in your ability to change things and your inability at times.
This is your calling in life. And it doesn't have to be a grandiose plan. It does not have to shake the world.
But it does require of you one thing - to walk out your truth.
I will tolerate people who are slow or lack understanding. But I totally detest people who lie or paint over the truth with white lies or coloured tales.
The animal welfare circle is peppered with both the beauty and filth of human nature. Do not believe everything you read. Not on newspapers, not on newsletters, not o the internet, not even on this blog. Do not simply chew and swallow flesh and bones of words written by man. You will choke and wonder what happened. Be a wise reader and find out the truth for yourself.
You don't have to believe everything I say. You have a choice. And you can very easily find out the truth if you want to. There are things that I now do not really know what to believe, but I can find out the truth if I want.
We will lay bare every bit of what we do, our rights and our wrongs, no shame at all about it, not even, and especially not for our mistakes...I will lay bare everything that we have done for the animals and everything more I so long to do but am unable to, on our own ... if only for the wellbeing of just another living creature who shares our earth.
But please, do not lie.
I have chose not to question anyone's actions anymore. Not even their intentions. I wonder, yes I do, but to question and debate as to why they are doing what they do, it is a waste of time.
There are people who say that there are so many people out there who need help, who need sustenance, what are these groups of people spending time and money on animals? Well, I say to those people, well and good, if your heart feels deeply for the needy people out there, go out there and DO your bit for them. Are you offering a part of your life to these needy people you proclaim about?
Each of us is born with a different passion. You are called to different purposes in life. And you know it. There are just some areas you find yourself keep coming back to. That you are fired up for. That brings you both pain and joy in your ability to change things and your inability at times.
This is your calling in life. And it doesn't have to be a grandiose plan. It does not have to shake the world.
But it does require of you one thing - to walk out your truth.
I will tolerate people who are slow or lack understanding. But I totally detest people who lie or paint over the truth with white lies or coloured tales.
The animal welfare circle is peppered with both the beauty and filth of human nature. Do not believe everything you read. Not on newspapers, not on newsletters, not o the internet, not even on this blog. Do not simply chew and swallow flesh and bones of words written by man. You will choke and wonder what happened. Be a wise reader and find out the truth for yourself.
You don't have to believe everything I say. You have a choice. And you can very easily find out the truth if you want to. There are things that I now do not really know what to believe, but I can find out the truth if I want.
We will lay bare every bit of what we do, our rights and our wrongs, no shame at all about it, not even, and especially not for our mistakes...I will lay bare everything that we have done for the animals and everything more I so long to do but am unable to, on our own ... if only for the wellbeing of just another living creature who shares our earth.
But please, do not lie.
April 24, 2007
Caregiver needed for 1 year, salary provided
As we continue in our day-to-day 'operations' in animal welfare, we have only been blessed to build more, if not stronger, relations with the disparate caregivers, fosterers, boarders and strayfeeders all over the island, and learn from our interactions with them, samaritans in their very own right, how important a cohesive network of animal activists, supporters and volunteers, driven by the same motivations, the same passions to achieve the same objectives, is.
To improve the lives of the animals -- street, footloose, industrial, agricultural, domestic or whatever else.
In a context where we lack a macro form of support such as that from national animal welfare organisation or, quite simply, the government, our 'silent' caregivers hinge upon mutual support to make a difference to the lives of, especially, our stray animals; to make sure, in their very best, that our animals are granted some form of decency -- water to drink, food for nourishment, medication for the injured -- in places where most public would not take a second glance at or consider, even for a fraction of a moment, WHO are those who rely on the wilderness, the bushes, the space beneath some random truck to sleep and claim space for their own abode.
Today, we received a call from an existing strayfeeder who'll be away from Singapore for one year, who seeks another (reliable, confident) caregiver who can take his place, for this one year, and one who is confident of this role, committed and consistent in this potential work.
Here are the details:
=============================================
To feed about 12 stray dogs at a spot in Sembawang every morning consistently for one year, from mid-May 2007 to mid-May 2008. Feeding materials include meshed kibbles, canfood and rice, and water which will be rendered in small pails. Feeding materials will be supplied time to time by this existing strayfeeder, or, into the time that he will be absent, by his friend.
Existing strayfeeder will remain contactable. Replacing strayfeeder will be able to contact his friend, in times of emergency.
From now until his departure, he will orientate replacing strayfeeder and guide him/her along with the job. Work estimated to be half to one hour each morning. Strayfeeder expected to clear newspapers or surrounding litter, to ensure responsible feeding.
The 12 dogs are made up of two to three independent packs, mostly adult dogs. Dogs are of the wary sort but with a proper handover/orientation, it will be fine.
All we need now is someone who is able to commit to the time in feeding, the effort in the food preparation, and someone equipped with his/her own transport. Someone willing to take two hours of his/her time everyday, for this very worthy cause.
A guaranteed salary will be provided.
If you know of anyone who might be keen to take on this 'challenge', a challenge that will perhaps open one's life to wider, unique experiences of animal welfare work, kindly contact: projectjkteam@yahoo.com.sg or 9026-2733. More details will be provided.
To improve the lives of the animals -- street, footloose, industrial, agricultural, domestic or whatever else.
In a context where we lack a macro form of support such as that from national animal welfare organisation or, quite simply, the government, our 'silent' caregivers hinge upon mutual support to make a difference to the lives of, especially, our stray animals; to make sure, in their very best, that our animals are granted some form of decency -- water to drink, food for nourishment, medication for the injured -- in places where most public would not take a second glance at or consider, even for a fraction of a moment, WHO are those who rely on the wilderness, the bushes, the space beneath some random truck to sleep and claim space for their own abode.
Today, we received a call from an existing strayfeeder who'll be away from Singapore for one year, who seeks another (reliable, confident) caregiver who can take his place, for this one year, and one who is confident of this role, committed and consistent in this potential work.
Here are the details:
=============================================
To feed about 12 stray dogs at a spot in Sembawang every morning consistently for one year, from mid-May 2007 to mid-May 2008. Feeding materials include meshed kibbles, canfood and rice, and water which will be rendered in small pails. Feeding materials will be supplied time to time by this existing strayfeeder, or, into the time that he will be absent, by his friend.
Existing strayfeeder will remain contactable. Replacing strayfeeder will be able to contact his friend, in times of emergency.
From now until his departure, he will orientate replacing strayfeeder and guide him/her along with the job. Work estimated to be half to one hour each morning. Strayfeeder expected to clear newspapers or surrounding litter, to ensure responsible feeding.
The 12 dogs are made up of two to three independent packs, mostly adult dogs. Dogs are of the wary sort but with a proper handover/orientation, it will be fine.
All we need now is someone who is able to commit to the time in feeding, the effort in the food preparation, and someone equipped with his/her own transport. Someone willing to take two hours of his/her time everyday, for this very worthy cause.
A guaranteed salary will be provided.
If you know of anyone who might be keen to take on this 'challenge', a challenge that will perhaps open one's life to wider, unique experiences of animal welfare work, kindly contact: projectjkteam@yahoo.com.sg or 9026-2733. More details will be provided.
Mother's Day
On behalf of a cat activisit, here is an email appeal:
====================================
Dear all,
A kind samaritan donated some pearl earrings and necklaces to us to raise funds for the cattery and for stray cats sterilisation. The last round of funds we raised from t-shirt sales and the adoption drive was partially given to the cattery and also to fund the TNRM (Trap-Neuter-Return-Manage) scheme at Kampong Eunos.
Here's what we spend when we embark on a TNRM program:
- Sterilisation Costs - $21 for Male, $37 for Female
- Boarding until they recover - an average of $8 for Male and $16 for Female as females have to board for 1 extra day to ensure that the stitches do not burst)
- 2-way Transport - $35 to $40
- Trapping costs - $70
So, if we trap 6 cats in one night, 3 males, 3 females, the total cost for the entire operation would be around $350, an average of $60 per cat.
This time round, we hope to raise funds for the following causes:
Catching the animal killer at Sembawang.
This cruel person has killed at least 2 dogs and multiple cats. On 9 April 2007, at around 2 - 3 am, residents in the area heard the chilling screams of a mother cat who was getting disemboweled. Her 3 kittens had their skulls crushed.
When we spoke to residents in the area, they saw the mother cat's body with the intestines all out and also the kittens with eyes popped out. SPCA is offering a $1000 reward for the witness whose testimony will lead to the conviction of this killer.
In memory of this mother cat...please remember to send her your prayers and loving kindness as we get closer and closer to Mothers' Day. If you wish to help this cause, you can help in the following ways:
1) Contributing CCD pinhole cameras. (We already have 2 from the Old Airport Case).
2) Recording Device. (The recording medium with the harddisk inside. We only have 1).
3) Funds to cover installation fees.
4) If you live in the Sembawang area, we need you to be our eyes and ears for this operation.
5) Buying our pearl jewellery and venetian hearts so we can use this pool of money for the Sembawang cause as well as to embark on another TNRM project in a highly cat populated area.
Please visit our website: www.pawpledge.com for more information and pictures on the items for sale mentioned in 5).
Feel free to pass on this email on to your friends but please be mindful not to forward it to non-animal lovers. They might feel irritated by spam email. If you like to be taken off my mailing list, please send me a personal message.
If you have some free time today, please take 2 minutes to sign the petition to end inhumane slaughter of pigs (in Taiwan): http://www.wspa.org.uk/pig/default-email.asp
Thank you for taking time to read my email.
Regards,
Lynn
====================================
Dear all,
A kind samaritan donated some pearl earrings and necklaces to us to raise funds for the cattery and for stray cats sterilisation. The last round of funds we raised from t-shirt sales and the adoption drive was partially given to the cattery and also to fund the TNRM (Trap-Neuter-Return-Manage) scheme at Kampong Eunos.
Here's what we spend when we embark on a TNRM program:
- Sterilisation Costs - $21 for Male, $37 for Female
- Boarding until they recover - an average of $8 for Male and $16 for Female as females have to board for 1 extra day to ensure that the stitches do not burst)
- 2-way Transport - $35 to $40
- Trapping costs - $70
So, if we trap 6 cats in one night, 3 males, 3 females, the total cost for the entire operation would be around $350, an average of $60 per cat.
This time round, we hope to raise funds for the following causes:
Catching the animal killer at Sembawang.
This cruel person has killed at least 2 dogs and multiple cats. On 9 April 2007, at around 2 - 3 am, residents in the area heard the chilling screams of a mother cat who was getting disemboweled. Her 3 kittens had their skulls crushed.
When we spoke to residents in the area, they saw the mother cat's body with the intestines all out and also the kittens with eyes popped out. SPCA is offering a $1000 reward for the witness whose testimony will lead to the conviction of this killer.
In memory of this mother cat...please remember to send her your prayers and loving kindness as we get closer and closer to Mothers' Day. If you wish to help this cause, you can help in the following ways:
1) Contributing CCD pinhole cameras. (We already have 2 from the Old Airport Case).
2) Recording Device. (The recording medium with the harddisk inside. We only have 1).
3) Funds to cover installation fees.
4) If you live in the Sembawang area, we need you to be our eyes and ears for this operation.
5) Buying our pearl jewellery and venetian hearts so we can use this pool of money for the Sembawang cause as well as to embark on another TNRM project in a highly cat populated area.
Please visit our website: www.pawpledge.com for more information and pictures on the items for sale mentioned in 5).
Feel free to pass on this email on to your friends but please be mindful not to forward it to non-animal lovers. They might feel irritated by spam email. If you like to be taken off my mailing list, please send me a personal message.
If you have some free time today, please take 2 minutes to sign the petition to end inhumane slaughter of pigs (in Taiwan): http://www.wspa.org.uk/pig/default-email.asp
Thank you for taking time to read my email.
Regards,
Lynn
April 23, 2007
For supporters of Junior & Ginne, you deserve to know how their case has been judged:
Think about the case since it transpired - of how 2 dogs 'stray' all the way from Bukit Timah to Punggol ... of how they were found after 7 days on the streets ... of how Ginne could have been put down at SPCA if no one claims her back ... of how distraught and thin both Junior and Ginne were when they are found ... of how mere members of the public were MORE concerned than their owners in trying to find them back ... of how the owners themselves made NO sincere attempt to search for their 'lost' pets ... of how the owners did not contact us at all during the search for Junior and Ginne while we were the ones trying hard to contact them ... of how mere members of the public were so kind to come forward to pay for their boarding fees at a private boarder and now at ALL ... of how the owners, knowing that their dogs have been found, did NOT contact us at all to find out how they are and did NOT offer to be responsible for their boarding fees..... (the donations we have received for Junior and Ginne's boarding will only last till the month of May)
And most telling of all, of how the owners had themselves informed the authority that "they are NOT ABLE TO TAKE THE DOGS BACK".
I am more than a bit weary today and more than a bit disappointed at how this abandonment case had developed and been judged as 'not a case of abandonment', but I'll try to accept the need for objective evidence and eye witness in order for any charge to be taken against the family, despite the reasoning, the circumstances and the obvious (to me) intention of the family.
Here are some email exchange with the authority (read from bottom up). We appreciate the time the authority has taken in this case, and I do understand that in the absence of eye witness and concrete evidence, they have done what they could to bring some justice to this case with the charges they can pin on the family.
Emails of April 2007:
Thank you for your email. The family has informed us that they are not able to take the dogs back.
Animal Welfare Regulations Branch Agri-Food &Veterinary Authority
______________________________________
Thank you for your time in this case. We would like to know if the family has been informed that their 2 dogs have been found?
_______________________________________
Thank you for your email. We would like to reiterate that based on the evidence available, we are not able to take action against Mrs R and her brother for abandonment under our Animals and Birds (A & B) Act. Abandoning a pet is considered as an act of cruelty. However in order to take action against someone for abandoning a pet, we would need a witness who is able to testify in court that he / she saw the act of abandonment.
Under our A & B (Dog Licensing and Control) Rules, it is an offence for a person to own or keep a dog which is over 3 months of age unless that person has taken out a licence in respect of the dog. Although presently Mrs R has only one dog, she has admitted that she had kept 3 dogs in her premises without valid licences. Furthermore the family had admitted that they routinely let their dogs stray around the neighbourhood unsupervised.
Hence we will be taking action against them under the A & B (Dog Licensing and Control) Rules for unlicensed dogs and for allowing the dogs to be at large. Thank you.
Animal Welfare Regulations Branch Agri-Food &Veterinary Authority
____________________________________
Email of March 2007:
Thank you for bringing this case to our attention. We would like to thank you for your assistance and for providing your detailed accounts on the case. We have now completed our investigation. I regret that based on the evidence available, we are not able to take action against Mrs R and her brother for abandonment under the Animals and Birds Act. However, we will be taking action against Mrs R under the Animals and Birds (Dog Licensing and Control) Rules for not having valid licences for the three dogs and for allowing them to stray in a public place. Thank you.
Animal Welfare Regulations Branch Agri-Food &Veterinary Authority
April 21, 2007
When you are not always watching your back...
when you do not catch yourself avoiding some people, avoiding some phone calls.... when you do not have to slow down your response in order to concoct some answers in your mind...when you do not tread around in anxiety and fear of being caught....when you do not have anything to hide....
When you are able to look people in the eye with confidence and kindness....when you are unafraid to share your honest opinion...when you go to bed each night with a smile and wake up with a rested peace...
... it is then, at these moments, that you know you are living right.
When you are able to look people in the eye with confidence and kindness....when you are unafraid to share your honest opinion...when you go to bed each night with a smile and wake up with a rested peace...
... it is then, at these moments, that you know you are living right.
To the lady who emailed about adopting the JRT
Hi A W, thanks for emailing to projectjkteam@yahoo.com.sg with your offer to adopt the JRT. I replied to the email you gave but it bounced back. I hope you will read our post here as well as the update on the JRT case below. I will keep you all informed when I hear from the authorities.
Joo Chiat Petshop - Animal Street
Here is the explanation of the matter for your attention, from Mariam herself:
"Hi, I'm Mariam. I'm sorry for not picking up your call. Due to the overwhelming response, I actually switched my phone off. This whole thing has gotten out of hand, so AsiaOne did a report on it t clarify the matter. It would be good if you read the article & maybe keep you readers updated with the TRUTH."
http://digital.asiaone.com.sg/news/20070417_001.html
"Hi, I'm Mariam. I'm sorry for not picking up your call. Due to the overwhelming response, I actually switched my phone off. This whole thing has gotten out of hand, so AsiaOne did a report on it t clarify the matter. It would be good if you read the article & maybe keep you readers updated with the TRUTH."
http://digital.asiaone.com.sg/news/20070417_001.html
April 20, 2007
Updates on the JRT case
Few days back, we have been informed that an aquarium is seen selling a JRT in a very small cage. I have seen the photos and indeed, the cage looks like those you use for hamsters/guinea pigs/rabbits. To house an active dog like a JRT in such a small cage is akin to abuse.
See the small cage that he is housed in:
The person who reported to the authorities was told that they were unableto assist in this matter, a case which is faulted on more than one count:
- the aquarium being not licensed to be selling dogs
We wrote in the clarify and offered our cooperation to free the JRT and asked for the dog to be handed over to us so that we'll help find him a home. For to issue a warning/fine to that aquarium, and NOT removing the dog would just result in the dog being moved somewhere else, and again for sale.
So, once we keep our eyes open and nap each culprit, such cases will gradually dwindle as they realise that their activities will NOT be tolerated by the public, and more importantly, they will also not be tolerated by the authorities.
See the small cage that he is housed in:
The person who reported to the authorities was told that they were unableto assist in this matter, a case which is faulted on more than one count:
- the aquarium being not licensed to be selling dogs
- the condition the dog is being kept in
We wrote in the clarify and offered our cooperation to free the JRT and asked for the dog to be handed over to us so that we'll help find him a home. For to issue a warning/fine to that aquarium, and NOT removing the dog would just result in the dog being moved somewhere else, and again for sale.
The next day, we were informed that the authorities had actually been to the shop and taken the JRT into their possession. Today, I was informed that the authorities are conducting their investigations and will only later decide what to do with the JRT.
We again expressed our offer to help rehome the JRT but the authorities have not replied on that. I'll update again.
___________________________________________
Thank you P for informing us. This is the kind of cooperation we need - KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN to things that are not done in acceptable manners. Do NOT just walk away. Take photos (this is very important). Speak with the people at the shops/farms where unacceptable seling/breeding of dogs is happening. Be neutral and ask questions to get as much info as possible. Then, bring your case to the authorities who have the legal powers to investigate and persecute.
We again expressed our offer to help rehome the JRT but the authorities have not replied on that. I'll update again.
___________________________________________
Thank you P for informing us. This is the kind of cooperation we need - KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN to things that are not done in acceptable manners. Do NOT just walk away. Take photos (this is very important). Speak with the people at the shops/farms where unacceptable seling/breeding of dogs is happening. Be neutral and ask questions to get as much info as possible. Then, bring your case to the authorities who have the legal powers to investigate and persecute.
You have no idea how MUCH GOOD you will have done by just reporting one small case. Cos more often than not, behind one little pup at an innocent aquarium, is a big network of illegal breeding and selling of animals who could have been stolen/lost and very often, such breeding takes place in less than desirable conditions.
So, once we keep our eyes open and nap each culprit, such cases will gradually dwindle as they realise that their activities will NOT be tolerated by the public, and more importantly, they will also not be tolerated by the authorities.
April 18, 2007
Foster or adopter for JRT
We are in the midst of a case involving a JRT. We will share more later but meanwhile, if you can adopt/foster a young JR, please email us at projectjkteam@yahoo.com.sg
That will really help us move along this case. Thanks!
That will really help us move along this case. Thanks!
April 17, 2007
Companion Dog Show on 29 April, Expo Hall 3A
Hello all!Yes, we are counting down to the SKC Companion Dog Show held in conjunction with the Championship Dog Show on 29 April, Sunday, at Expo Hall 3A.
The Companion Dog Section is a new and timely section of the Singapore Kennel Club. It welcomes ALL dog owners and ALL your dogs, regardless of pedigree, breed or looks! All are welcomed to get together with a pure love for our canine pals through social and educational events (dog picnics, dog walks, seminars on nutrition, grooming and veterinary care, obedience forums).
Through such interaction and sharing, you will be taking an active role in uplifting our standards of dog ownership by creating a deeper understanding and relationship with your dogs, and also expanding the public's true understanding of the canine world.
Education is always the key and it goes much deeper than just dog care and grooming. That is my belief. And that is why I have joined the SKC to grow this new Companion Dog Section. So join me and be involved. We need a core group of dedicated members to work together to improve our standards of dog ownership, bring the joy of dogs out into our society, and have fun doing it!
* I attach above the EVENT FORM for the Companion Dog Show (feel free to forward it on). Just download it and mail/fax it back to us. Or drop by the Club with your registration form.
We'll be awarding the best kept dog as well as the dog with the best trick in the house among other events, as well as the Companion Dog of the Year award at the end this year. So it's time now to get our doggy pals ready for the show - you'll be seeing some of our Project JK dogs as well!
I'll see you all there, cheers!
http://www.skc.org.sg/CDS.htm
April 16, 2007
Please do not forget about Sparky
Keep your eyes open for him.
It has been one week since Sparky was last seen at the farm. The farm owners have not been cooperative at all and it seems the police are also not that helpful either. Sparky's owner will continue to work with the police to unravel the truth.
It has been one week since Sparky was last seen at the farm. The farm owners have not been cooperative at all and it seems the police are also not that helpful either. Sparky's owner will continue to work with the police to unravel the truth.
We received news a few days ago that a dog that looked like Sparky was seen in an aquarium shop in a small cage. We had hoped that it was indeed Sparky, but discovered it was not. But then again, what's a dog doing on sale in an aquarium shop? We'll be bringing this up to the authorities.
Do keep your eyes open for such illegal business and illegal breeding of animals. Make an official report to the AVA for any improper dealings that you spot, so that their inspectors can make an investigation on the issue. You can contact AVA at 6471-7198 or email ava_cawc@ava. gov.ag
Do keep your eyes open for such illegal business and illegal breeding of animals. Make an official report to the AVA for any improper dealings that you spot, so that their inspectors can make an investigation on the issue. You can contact AVA at 6471-7198 or email ava_cawc@ava. gov.ag
To Sparky's owners: Persevere in this! Do not give up. Someone will eventually reveal the truth of where Sparky is now.
April 15, 2007
Updates on petshop closing down
We initially thought it could be a hoax when the handphone number given was routed to a Singtel message, 'number not available'. Adding to that comments on dog forums that it was a hoax, we almost believed it.
By the timely help of L who personally drove down to Joo Chiat to search out the truth, only then did we know that it is a true fact.
The petshop is Animal Street at Joo Chiat. The owners were in the midst of closing the shop, which was locked, with a sign "No more dogs" on the door.
L tried to get in and also tried to get the attention of the staff inside the shop but they did not respond. I tried calling the shop telephone but they also did not pick up.
We later made a few calls to key people in the animal welfare scene and the latest news we got was that all the dogs have been sold. To who and for what purpose, we do not know. Let's hope they have all gone to good homes.
Whether this is a genuine appeal or an emotional ploy of the petshop to help 'get rid' of their stocks, it brigs to mind one big question - What happen to those animals in various petshops, who are not sold? Why don't you try asking the next petshop you step into - where do their dogs go if they do not get sold? And please do share with us the replies you here. It will be interesting to know.
Thanks for all of you who have contacted us with concern and offers to help.
By the timely help of L who personally drove down to Joo Chiat to search out the truth, only then did we know that it is a true fact.
The petshop is Animal Street at Joo Chiat. The owners were in the midst of closing the shop, which was locked, with a sign "No more dogs" on the door.
L tried to get in and also tried to get the attention of the staff inside the shop but they did not respond. I tried calling the shop telephone but they also did not pick up.
We later made a few calls to key people in the animal welfare scene and the latest news we got was that all the dogs have been sold. To who and for what purpose, we do not know. Let's hope they have all gone to good homes.
Whether this is a genuine appeal or an emotional ploy of the petshop to help 'get rid' of their stocks, it brigs to mind one big question - What happen to those animals in various petshops, who are not sold? Why don't you try asking the next petshop you step into - where do their dogs go if they do not get sold? And please do share with us the replies you here. It will be interesting to know.
Thanks for all of you who have contacted us with concern and offers to help.
Pet shop closing down
Received an anonymous SMS:
"Help! Petshop at Joo Chiat closing tomorrow. Two huskies, one black labrador, one shih tzu and one husky terrier-cross breed to give away. Otherwise they're going to be put down. For details, please call Mariam 9730-2064. Please forward. Thanks."
"Help! Petshop at Joo Chiat closing tomorrow. Two huskies, one black labrador, one shih tzu and one husky terrier-cross breed to give away. Otherwise they're going to be put down. For details, please call Mariam 9730-2064. Please forward. Thanks."
April 13, 2007
Pondering on the existence
of Project JK, how it came about, what we are doing now and what we are going to do next.
Project JK was never meant to be a 'project' to begin with. It is not a 'come, do, leave' kinda project with a beginning and a final closure. This does not happen in the reality of stray groundwork.
Just one day spent on the road in one area, and you will know that the task of 'cleaning up' an area is beyond the ability of a small welfare group, how much more incredible for a team of 3?
We never endeavored to achieve big accomplishments when we started. Very simply, we see a need. We see a person needing help. And we followed our hearts to step out and help that person and the strays along the way.
I know from the start I myself will not be able to sterilise all the strays, even in just one area, for there are many who will never come near us, no matter how long we have fed them. And there will always be abandonment cases that add onto the stray population, more so if the abandoned animal is not sterilised.
It is a pity, for a country small and contained like Singapore, we seem to have failed so obviously in an area that can be resolved if there is priority given.
We have a "Do Not Abandon Your Pets" campaign, but cases of abandonment could not be charged. In Singapore, to share a fact, there has not been a single case of abandonment charged.
Alright, I will try to understand the reasoning that no concrete evidence was available to bring forth a charge, ie, no eye witness, no photographs, no videos of the person ACTUALLY abandoning the dog. Such evidence are difficult, if not near impossible, as a person about to commit abandonment will certainly do it in top secrecy.
We know that we do not have direct evidence. But we do have circumstantial evidence, and on top of that, we do have additional reasoning. For cases where direct evidence is not present, and there are many cases like that, in comes circumstantial evidence plus reasoning.
If EVERY case depends solely on direct evidence, what a simple legal system we would have. Each case will be so point blank that lawyers are no longer needed. For that case, judgement can be dispensed. And we might as well throw out our brains. Well, together with that, we might as well throw out our hearts.
...................................................................................
Well, back to Project JK, we know for any kind of work your heart calls you to, anything at all that involves people - there will always be comments. Good or bad. Comments on how you should have done this, why did you do that, when are you going to do this, how could you let that happen? Is this worth it?
I don't know. In fact, I sometimes don't even know if this blog is a good idea or not. Who are the people reading this and what are their true intentions with us and our work? But then I think again, what is there to hide? Even our mistakes I will be willing to share openly. We are no perfect beings but we always remind ourselves to walk with a sincere heart. We may not create miracles but the least we can offer is KINDNESS.
We may fail miserably with Project JK. The number of strays in the areas may boom beyond our control. Many more may be culled. We may not be able to save and rehome another litter of pups. The situation may well go back to square one when we are gone.
So what are we doing this for?
Just for 1 single dog called Ruby. And just for another dog called Puppy Boy. And for another one called Shadow. For Junior. For Lucas. For Doby. For Jean-Paul. For Maggie. For Eliza. For Bicycle. For Abbie. For Coca and Cola. For Tiger. For Grey. For Billy. For Ashley. For Chance.
There are many more Rubys out there whom we may fail to reach. But right now, I am happy we reached one.
That is what we are doing this for.
Project JK was never meant to be a 'project' to begin with. It is not a 'come, do, leave' kinda project with a beginning and a final closure. This does not happen in the reality of stray groundwork.
Just one day spent on the road in one area, and you will know that the task of 'cleaning up' an area is beyond the ability of a small welfare group, how much more incredible for a team of 3?
We never endeavored to achieve big accomplishments when we started. Very simply, we see a need. We see a person needing help. And we followed our hearts to step out and help that person and the strays along the way.
I know from the start I myself will not be able to sterilise all the strays, even in just one area, for there are many who will never come near us, no matter how long we have fed them. And there will always be abandonment cases that add onto the stray population, more so if the abandoned animal is not sterilised.
It is a pity, for a country small and contained like Singapore, we seem to have failed so obviously in an area that can be resolved if there is priority given.
We have a "Do Not Abandon Your Pets" campaign, but cases of abandonment could not be charged. In Singapore, to share a fact, there has not been a single case of abandonment charged.
Alright, I will try to understand the reasoning that no concrete evidence was available to bring forth a charge, ie, no eye witness, no photographs, no videos of the person ACTUALLY abandoning the dog. Such evidence are difficult, if not near impossible, as a person about to commit abandonment will certainly do it in top secrecy.
We know that we do not have direct evidence. But we do have circumstantial evidence, and on top of that, we do have additional reasoning. For cases where direct evidence is not present, and there are many cases like that, in comes circumstantial evidence plus reasoning.
If EVERY case depends solely on direct evidence, what a simple legal system we would have. Each case will be so point blank that lawyers are no longer needed. For that case, judgement can be dispensed. And we might as well throw out our brains. Well, together with that, we might as well throw out our hearts.
...................................................................................
Well, back to Project JK, we know for any kind of work your heart calls you to, anything at all that involves people - there will always be comments. Good or bad. Comments on how you should have done this, why did you do that, when are you going to do this, how could you let that happen? Is this worth it?
I don't know. In fact, I sometimes don't even know if this blog is a good idea or not. Who are the people reading this and what are their true intentions with us and our work? But then I think again, what is there to hide? Even our mistakes I will be willing to share openly. We are no perfect beings but we always remind ourselves to walk with a sincere heart. We may not create miracles but the least we can offer is KINDNESS.
We may fail miserably with Project JK. The number of strays in the areas may boom beyond our control. Many more may be culled. We may not be able to save and rehome another litter of pups. The situation may well go back to square one when we are gone.
So what are we doing this for?
Just for 1 single dog called Ruby. And just for another dog called Puppy Boy. And for another one called Shadow. For Junior. For Lucas. For Doby. For Jean-Paul. For Maggie. For Eliza. For Bicycle. For Abbie. For Coca and Cola. For Tiger. For Grey. For Billy. For Ashley. For Chance.
There are many more Rubys out there whom we may fail to reach. But right now, I am happy we reached one.
That is what we are doing this for.
Recently, I have received 2 emails
on dogs in chains. One just today and the other 2 weeks back.
I'd replied to the first person, E, who wrote on 30 March about a dog who lives in her area who's always chained up. However, I have not received any reply. If for any reason my email have not reached you E, please email me again at projectjkteam@yahoo.com.sg.
Today, another person reported on a beagle who is living in chains. Everytime she sees him, he is in chains. We will be checking on him.
The sad thing about dogs in chains is that, legally, it is not a crime if the household is seen to adhere to certain requirements like food, water, shelter, certain length of leash. When these factors are present, the family is "legally allowed" to continue keeping the dog in chains, 24 hours a day, every day, for the rest of his life.
To the dog, his life might as well have ended, the very minute the officer pronounced his living conditions as "legal".
To keep a social animal in chains - the silent anguish and desperate call for freedom can never be understood until you look into the eyes - there are always just 2 expressions: one of innocent hope (please come and free me) and the other of a crushed life, devoid of feelings no more (please let me die). For there in chains or in a cage, day after day, they are no longer living. They have been betrayed and killed by the very people who have taken them in. That sadness is indescribable.
* YOU can bring these animals some HOPE. When you see an animal in chains or perpetually caged up, please go forward and speak with the family. Find out if they need any help with their pet and why he/she is kept in such a condition. Share with them, educate them. Some are genuinely ignorant. But there are also some who are purely irresponsible.
If nothing improves after awhile, contact the SPCA education officers to visit the home and advise them on responsible pet ownership.
Do not just walk away. You will carry with you the lingering images of a living being who needs you to come forward and speak up for him. Life is never meant to be lived in chains. Do not let that animal down. YOU can grant him that decent measure of FREEDOM which every single living being is born for.
I'd replied to the first person, E, who wrote on 30 March about a dog who lives in her area who's always chained up. However, I have not received any reply. If for any reason my email have not reached you E, please email me again at projectjkteam@yahoo.com.sg.
Today, another person reported on a beagle who is living in chains. Everytime she sees him, he is in chains. We will be checking on him.
The sad thing about dogs in chains is that, legally, it is not a crime if the household is seen to adhere to certain requirements like food, water, shelter, certain length of leash. When these factors are present, the family is "legally allowed" to continue keeping the dog in chains, 24 hours a day, every day, for the rest of his life.
To the dog, his life might as well have ended, the very minute the officer pronounced his living conditions as "legal".
To keep a social animal in chains - the silent anguish and desperate call for freedom can never be understood until you look into the eyes - there are always just 2 expressions: one of innocent hope (please come and free me) and the other of a crushed life, devoid of feelings no more (please let me die). For there in chains or in a cage, day after day, they are no longer living. They have been betrayed and killed by the very people who have taken them in. That sadness is indescribable.
* YOU can bring these animals some HOPE. When you see an animal in chains or perpetually caged up, please go forward and speak with the family. Find out if they need any help with their pet and why he/she is kept in such a condition. Share with them, educate them. Some are genuinely ignorant. But there are also some who are purely irresponsible.
If nothing improves after awhile, contact the SPCA education officers to visit the home and advise them on responsible pet ownership.
Do not just walk away. You will carry with you the lingering images of a living being who needs you to come forward and speak up for him. Life is never meant to be lived in chains. Do not let that animal down. YOU can grant him that decent measure of FREEDOM which every single living being is born for.
April 11, 2007
When we shared in our first post on Ruby
that she was a 'rubbish chute' dog, I guess many of you didn't know what we mean.
Well, here are the rubbish bins which Ruby was thrown into many times while she stayed in that area. The workers would be having their dinner at night and cos Ruby begged them for food, they would throw her into one of these empty rubbish bins and let her out only when they were done or till a stray feeder rescued her out. At times, she was also kept locked up in the rubbish collection area.
But that is all in the past now.
Ruby our sweet gal is doing very well at her new home with her family pack of human and dogs. I personally like the laidback, natural lifestyle of the owner that has sort of rubbed off on the dogs, causing them to settle in amiably with one another. A dog is as happy as the bond he forms with his family pack. Ruby has bonded closely with her human, engaging him in her games, happily coming at his call and snuggling close at bedtime. She is indeed a sweetheart. And I am glad for her now.
Ruby with her new favourite soft toy which she 'stole' from C.
We have been receiving
differing versions on how Sparky got lost in the first place, how he ended up where he did, and eventually how he 'disappeared' again.
We do not wish to make any assumptions nor any false accusations on anyone as all is now merely hearsay and speculations, heavyladen with anxiety and sadness on the owners' part.
Latest 'news' we receive was that a couple was spotted to have taken Sparky away on Saturday night on a leash. If the suspicion is right, this couple had been to the farm regularly some time back but had stopped coming for quite a while now. They are dog lovers and had helped to tend to some stray pups in that area.
Still, no one on the farm can provide any useful information as to exactly who this couple is, and we are thus still unsure if this couple is who we think they are. We also do not have their contact numbers. We will have to speak personally with the eyewitness who saw this on Sat night.
At least, if it is really that couple who took Sparky, we are assured that Sparky is well taken care of now as they are dog lovers.
It could be highly likely that Sparky was found wandering lost and someone just brought him here for shelter, sincerely not knowing he is a lost dog or simply not knowing how to return him to his owner. That person could have asked one of the farm people to help look after Sparky and then asked around for anyone who would want him.
The only frustrating part is the 'I don't know' attitude of the farm people when we are quite certain they do know.
* There are some suspicions going on, so:
- If you are reading this and know anything about the truth, please do come forward and tell us.
- If you have somehow been innocently given/bought Sparky, please call us.
Email: projectjkteam@yahoo.com.sg
Tel: 9090-8592
- If you are reading this and you are the one who took Sparky:
We will never understand the anxious hearts of the owners unless we ourselves have lost a beloved pet. The grief, anxiety and frustration would be indescribable and the not-knowing really pains the heart.
If you are having Sparky now, all we ask is this: Put Sparky back into the cage which we will be checking daily. We will take him back the instant he is returned to the cage. No questions asked. We do not need to know who you are.
This is our sincere appeal.
We do not wish to make any assumptions nor any false accusations on anyone as all is now merely hearsay and speculations, heavyladen with anxiety and sadness on the owners' part.
Latest 'news' we receive was that a couple was spotted to have taken Sparky away on Saturday night on a leash. If the suspicion is right, this couple had been to the farm regularly some time back but had stopped coming for quite a while now. They are dog lovers and had helped to tend to some stray pups in that area.
Still, no one on the farm can provide any useful information as to exactly who this couple is, and we are thus still unsure if this couple is who we think they are. We also do not have their contact numbers. We will have to speak personally with the eyewitness who saw this on Sat night.
At least, if it is really that couple who took Sparky, we are assured that Sparky is well taken care of now as they are dog lovers.
It could be highly likely that Sparky was found wandering lost and someone just brought him here for shelter, sincerely not knowing he is a lost dog or simply not knowing how to return him to his owner. That person could have asked one of the farm people to help look after Sparky and then asked around for anyone who would want him.
The only frustrating part is the 'I don't know' attitude of the farm people when we are quite certain they do know.
* There are some suspicions going on, so:
- If you are reading this and know anything about the truth, please do come forward and tell us.
- If you have somehow been innocently given/bought Sparky, please call us.
Email: projectjkteam@yahoo.com.sg
Tel: 9090-8592
- If you are reading this and you are the one who took Sparky:
We will never understand the anxious hearts of the owners unless we ourselves have lost a beloved pet. The grief, anxiety and frustration would be indescribable and the not-knowing really pains the heart.
If you are having Sparky now, all we ask is this: Put Sparky back into the cage which we will be checking daily. We will take him back the instant he is returned to the cage. No questions asked. We do not need to know who you are.
This is our sincere appeal.
April 9, 2007
SPARKY
Dear all
The Welsh Corgi we had found on Saturday is SPARKY. He was lost on 2 April. Taking into account the happenings leading to his disappearance from his home, the owner suspected that Sparky was stolen. A police report has been lodged by the owner.
Very unfortunately, we only got to know that Sparky is a lost dog when the owner called us last evening. When we went down to the farm yesterday noon, prepared to take Sparky out, he was no longer there. Someone has taken him away.
We went with the owner to the farm again just now but still are unable to get any information from the farm people as to who brought Sparky there and who took him away yesterday. Notices have been given out around that area, SPCA, PetCall, AVA have been informed. We have also updated the police on this new info.
* Please look out for Sparky. He could have been given or sold to a family around Jalan Kayu/Yio Chu Kang/Seletar/AMK area or anywhere else. He is shaven down and microchipped. His microchip number: 982-009-102-752-693.
Here is how you can help:
1. Forward this email to your contacts to see if anyone has been given/bought Sparky
2. Print out the flyer and personally go to the petshops/vet clinics around your area and ask them to watch out for any Corgi who might be brought in and scan the Corgi for his microchip.
3. Post this lost appeal on all dog sites/forums.
I am sure, with pooled efforts, we will find Sparky very soon!
Thank you
1. Forward this email to your contacts to see if anyone has been given/bought Sparky
2. Print out the flyer and personally go to the petshops/vet clinics around your area and ask them to watch out for any Corgi who might be brought in and scan the Corgi for his microchip.
3. Post this lost appeal on all dog sites/forums.
I am sure, with pooled efforts, we will find Sparky very soon!
Thank you
(Just click on this poster, save file and print)
April 7, 2007
What's a Welsh Corgi doing
in a makeshift bird cage?
We were informed that someone had abandoned a dog at one of the farms. Today we went to take a look. From the brief description given (big ears, short legs), my guess was it must be a Corgi. And yes, it is.
I wasn't that shocked to see him. The things that humans are capable of do not really shock me anymore.
There he is, to me he looks like a young fellow, pretty well-kept, nails trimmed, coat shaven down. His face holds no smile but neither did he look particularly downhearted. It was just a face devoid of much expression.
In my heart, I felt that he must have been someone's pet, and enjoyed the comforts of indoor living with his family for a while before they grew tired of him. All the while we were there, we didn't hear him bark though one of the workers around that area said that when it gets dark, the poor boy howls in fear.
Take a look at this makeshift 'prison' some humans have put him in. There is basically no proper shelter except for a zinc roof over the bird cage and plywood for flooring. It had rained this noon and the entire cage was wet through.
We were initially told that he was abandoned. But later we were told that it was the farm owners themselves who brought him here and kept him in the cage. Taking into account that this dog could be the legal property of the farm owners, we didn't remove him just now, but will call them tomorrow morning to ascertain.
If they confirm that the Corgi belongs to them, we will advise them strongly against such a living condition and hear what alternative they can offer this boy. If they choose not to claim ownership of the dog, we will remove him to safety and a home that he strongly deserves.
I personally have made up my mind to remove this boy from this farm no matter what the farm owners say, cos we cannot trust them to accord a good home to a dog after seeing what they are doing to him now. They could well simply uproot him and place him in another 'prison' and not tell us where. But we will inform the farm owners of our decision before moving him.
So, in preparation of our moving him out, please contact us asap if you can give this boy the good home that he deserves. We will need to bring him to the vet for a full health check to make sure he is fine and well to go to his new home. If you are able to contribute to his medical check-up expenses, we will be most grateful. Please contact us at projectjkteam@yahoo.com.sg or 9090-8592.
The Corgi is a medium size dog who is even-tempered, loyal, affectionate and adaptable. Highly intelligent and active. You can read up more info on the Cardigan Welsh Corgi here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cardigan_Welsh_Corgi
April 5, 2007
On my way home just now,
WP called to tell me that she saw this very young and weak-looking kitten who'd appeared out of the blue at her void deck, what should we do with it, lest some ignorant folks get hold of it and possibly abuse it?
So I met up with WP when I got home but the kitten had disappeared from where it was last seen. We walked around the area for a while and suddenly WP spotted it! She was huddled up, right smack in the middle of the road which leads into a multi-storey carpark, with cars plying to and fro. She was just huddled there in a small furry ball, seemingly too weak to move anymore. Our hearts almost missed a few beats .... if WP didn't spot her and she stayed there just a few more minutes longer, the next car will surely drive right over her...
So we scooped her up and once again, were left standing with the question - what do we do now?? After looking around for her mom and then thinking it over, we walked her to this part of our neighbourhood where this auntie feeds her group of stray cats, all of them sterilised. We were hoping we meet auntie there but we were told she had already come and could have gone off to another area.
Our little kitten looked weak, so we got a packet of wet food and started to feed her. Initially she refused but soon after, with little morsels placed into her teeny mouth, she bucked up and started nibbling on her own. We then gave her water and it was obvious it must have been a long while since she last drank. She just huddled over the water bowl and drank her fill.
After awhile, we brought her nearer to the other adult cats who were snoozing at their corner and placed her on the ground near them. They were curious. 2 came near and sniffed her out, while one looked from a distance. All seemed neutral if not friendly, no signs of hostility. Maybe they know that she is unwell and they welcome her into their presence. We will check on her tomorrow.
I know there are many kittens and cats out there for adoption, but if you can take welcome this kitten into your home and care for her, do email us at projectjkteam@yahoo.com.sg
Btw, Ruby is currently now at her new foster home, possible her forever home. We will update more on her very soon. Thank you A for passing on the appeal for Ruby and thank you R for all the time you've taken to make the arrangements for Ruby and for linking us up with Ak. And thank you so much Ak for welcoming Ruby into your home!
So I met up with WP when I got home but the kitten had disappeared from where it was last seen. We walked around the area for a while and suddenly WP spotted it! She was huddled up, right smack in the middle of the road which leads into a multi-storey carpark, with cars plying to and fro. She was just huddled there in a small furry ball, seemingly too weak to move anymore. Our hearts almost missed a few beats .... if WP didn't spot her and she stayed there just a few more minutes longer, the next car will surely drive right over her...
So we scooped her up and once again, were left standing with the question - what do we do now?? After looking around for her mom and then thinking it over, we walked her to this part of our neighbourhood where this auntie feeds her group of stray cats, all of them sterilised. We were hoping we meet auntie there but we were told she had already come and could have gone off to another area.
Our little kitten looked weak, so we got a packet of wet food and started to feed her. Initially she refused but soon after, with little morsels placed into her teeny mouth, she bucked up and started nibbling on her own. We then gave her water and it was obvious it must have been a long while since she last drank. She just huddled over the water bowl and drank her fill.
After awhile, we brought her nearer to the other adult cats who were snoozing at their corner and placed her on the ground near them. They were curious. 2 came near and sniffed her out, while one looked from a distance. All seemed neutral if not friendly, no signs of hostility. Maybe they know that she is unwell and they welcome her into their presence. We will check on her tomorrow.
I know there are many kittens and cats out there for adoption, but if you can take welcome this kitten into your home and care for her, do email us at projectjkteam@yahoo.com.sg
Btw, Ruby is currently now at her new foster home, possible her forever home. We will update more on her very soon. Thank you A for passing on the appeal for Ruby and thank you R for all the time you've taken to make the arrangements for Ruby and for linking us up with Ak. And thank you so much Ak for welcoming Ruby into your home!
April 1, 2007
I went to visit Ruby today
and what a heartwarming session it had been. To see an insecure street dog blossom into a cheerful and affectionate family friend.
We knew from the start that Ruby is initially shy but when she has warmed up to you, she bonds and she bonds well. While she was at the vet for about a week, she bonded with the vet techs and was soon following them like a shadow. She's happy to trot with you in exchange for some reassuring smiles and pats. I guess she likes the feeling of belonging to a pack.
Today, as I spent some time with Ruby's fosterer, I learnt so much from L & P about the natural lives of the street dogs in Bali. Nature is sometimes more amazing than fiction. The humour, joy, grief, dilemma, heartaches, blessings that the animals bring - they fill your hearts yet break your hearts too - but I believe the people whom the dogs have chosen to spend their lives with, they won't trade them for anything.
Yes, it does take courage to love. Each time.
Thinking back to the first time I met Ruby, she had appeared after her few week's of disappearance, right next to the rubbish chute where she had stayed before. She took her first car ride with us to the vet for her sterilisation. And there began her chance to find her very own family pack. Cos where she was, she would suffer the abuse from the rough workers who had thrown her into the rubbish chutes repeatedly.
First car ride to vet
Today, she is a delight to watch. Her attentiveness to her family pack maks her an eager and fast learner. She knows 'sit', 'hand', 'stay', 'wait'. She is one of those dogs who enjoys play and will engage you in her new game. She has this basket of toys which she chooses with her fancy and so contentedly by herself, she would settle down on the floor to gnaw a yummy bone. Ocassionally she rolls herself over for a comforting belly rub.
Ruby has shown herself adaptable and responsive to the love, care and guidance of her foster family. Happiness and contentment is clearly displayed in her smiling face and unabashed show of affection for L. The lovely friendship of man and dog. The reward of a true desire to understand each other's world.
Ruby's fosterer will be leaving town this week and we have till this coming Thursday to find another foster family or permanent home for her. She is coming to about 6 to 7 months, and judging from her slender frame, she will just be a medium sized gal.
If you have the courage to let Ruby share her life and love with you, please contact us at projectjkteam@yahoo.com.sg or 9090-8592/9026-2733. Ruby holds her hopes high!
We knew from the start that Ruby is initially shy but when she has warmed up to you, she bonds and she bonds well. While she was at the vet for about a week, she bonded with the vet techs and was soon following them like a shadow. She's happy to trot with you in exchange for some reassuring smiles and pats. I guess she likes the feeling of belonging to a pack.
Today, as I spent some time with Ruby's fosterer, I learnt so much from L & P about the natural lives of the street dogs in Bali. Nature is sometimes more amazing than fiction. The humour, joy, grief, dilemma, heartaches, blessings that the animals bring - they fill your hearts yet break your hearts too - but I believe the people whom the dogs have chosen to spend their lives with, they won't trade them for anything.
Yes, it does take courage to love. Each time.
Thinking back to the first time I met Ruby, she had appeared after her few week's of disappearance, right next to the rubbish chute where she had stayed before. She took her first car ride with us to the vet for her sterilisation. And there began her chance to find her very own family pack. Cos where she was, she would suffer the abuse from the rough workers who had thrown her into the rubbish chutes repeatedly.
First car ride to vet
Today, she is a delight to watch. Her attentiveness to her family pack maks her an eager and fast learner. She knows 'sit', 'hand', 'stay', 'wait'. She is one of those dogs who enjoys play and will engage you in her new game. She has this basket of toys which she chooses with her fancy and so contentedly by herself, she would settle down on the floor to gnaw a yummy bone. Ocassionally she rolls herself over for a comforting belly rub.
Ruby has shown herself adaptable and responsive to the love, care and guidance of her foster family. Happiness and contentment is clearly displayed in her smiling face and unabashed show of affection for L. The lovely friendship of man and dog. The reward of a true desire to understand each other's world.
Ruby's fosterer will be leaving town this week and we have till this coming Thursday to find another foster family or permanent home for her. She is coming to about 6 to 7 months, and judging from her slender frame, she will just be a medium sized gal.
If you have the courage to let Ruby share her life and love with you, please contact us at projectjkteam@yahoo.com.sg or 9090-8592/9026-2733. Ruby holds her hopes high!
March 29, 2007
More puppies born
A month ago, I followed V on her rounds to get some updates on what's happening on the ground level, on what greets her everyday as she casts food to our strays, nourishing the street life with some dose of humanity, some dose of sentimentality. V has been travelling these self-same roads tending to the animals for the longest time we could imagine.
At J's farm, there are about six puppies. On my visit, the deserted farm I previously imagined came to life as beautiful, really beautiful puppies came bounding at the usual sound, the usual smell of brown rice mixed with kibbles and pieces of bread. A new litter of pups, a new ray of hope and promises to life, or another set of complexities of straywork?
I do not think I could ever look at them frivolously as cute puppies, devoid of any implications to welfare work, detached from the subjectivity we often grope along with, as we manage the packs and increasingly, make decisions of their existence -- should they be euthanized or kept alive? Or should we cast their destinies to the wind?
And the ONLY plan I have in mind is to leave them where they are and when they old enough, bring them to the vet to be sterilised. The neuter-return concept seems feasible now.
A close-up of one of the scurrying little ones. 
The puppies barking for attention as they rampaged in the spaces of the makeshift cages.
At J's farm, there are about six puppies. On my visit, the deserted farm I previously imagined came to life as beautiful, really beautiful puppies came bounding at the usual sound, the usual smell of brown rice mixed with kibbles and pieces of bread. A new litter of pups, a new ray of hope and promises to life, or another set of complexities of straywork?
I do not think I could ever look at them frivolously as cute puppies, devoid of any implications to welfare work, detached from the subjectivity we often grope along with, as we manage the packs and increasingly, make decisions of their existence -- should they be euthanized or kept alive? Or should we cast their destinies to the wind?
And the ONLY plan I have in mind is to leave them where they are and when they old enough, bring them to the vet to be sterilised. The neuter-return concept seems feasible now.
A close-up of one of the scurrying little ones. 
Another sibling
Three of them found along the road, accompanied by an adult cream female and a few other black adult males expelled from the K's farm.
En-route, we met yet another litter. The worker at the farm had them caged as seen in the following picture. But that was Feb. 24. Today, about half of the puppies here have been taken away, allegedly to "someone who sells vegetables at the market." The worker refused to tell us where exactly the puppies had gone and the identity of the vegetable seller. He also became more hostile and told V not to feed the puppies anymore.
I believe there are a few still left at this farm and in any case, will see if it's possible to sterilise them once they reach the right age.
The puppies barking for attention as they rampaged in the spaces of the makeshift cages.Specific to these litters, we are building our funds to neuter each and every one of these puppies as soon as they reach the right age. Within six months, they will be sexually mature and the females will most likely be pregnant, adding to the mulitplying effect of the stray population reality. Without any money, we won't be able to carry do this at all. We need your every support. There are at least ten puppies here.
Enquiries, email projectjkteam@yahoo.com.sg or call 9026-2733.
Five kittens left to die
On behalf of a welfare activist, here's an appeal:
Dear all,
Does anyone know of anybody who would be able to foster 5 kittens while the founder try to re-home them. They are currently still at a high human traffic area in town, the mother cat is no where in sight and the kittens aren't weaned yet.
It's either let them die there, send them to SPCA to be put down or we do our part in trying to find them a foster and homes. The founder is willing to sponsor food and pay for boarding, I believe.
If you know of any fosters, please kindly contact Michelle at 9225 1005.FYI, Michelle is unable to bring them home for family reasons. I have contacted at least 2 catterys and both are full. Please help pass this message on. Thanks.
Dear all,
Does anyone know of anybody who would be able to foster 5 kittens while the founder try to re-home them. They are currently still at a high human traffic area in town, the mother cat is no where in sight and the kittens aren't weaned yet.
It's either let them die there, send them to SPCA to be put down or we do our part in trying to find them a foster and homes. The founder is willing to sponsor food and pay for boarding, I believe.
If you know of any fosters, please kindly contact Michelle at 9225 1005.FYI, Michelle is unable to bring them home for family reasons. I have contacted at least 2 catterys and both are full. Please help pass this message on. Thanks.
March 28, 2007
Supplies that will help in straywork
It seems we're perpetually 'begging' for money -- donations to fund our dogs for boarding at shelters, medical bills, transport costs etc.
Was retrieving some updates from our caregivers, and they mentioned on the phone while they were out casting some food for some of our very human-wary stray dogs that they are in need of:
(1) Dog biscuits/kibbles and canfood: it doesn't matter if they're expired (as long as they don't smell rancid). The strayfeeders can't possibly feed the likes of Eukanuba or Timberwolf to our street dogs, so they make do with kind donations of expired food. And our hardy mongrels are able to consume them just as happily.
Some pet shops discard supplies as soon as they are expired. There could be a better system in collecting these food supplies for day-to-day straywork. If you happen to chat with pet shopkeepers, may we ask if you could keep in mind the commercially unwanted supplies that would serve to cut some costs for our strayfeeders.
(2) Plastic takeaway containers: You know the types that are used to store, say, takeaway tow huays? Well these come in handy for containing food and water for our strays too. It's doubly eco-friendly to recycle (containers washed and stored) and pass them to the strayfeeders for their daily operations.
Community support doesn't have to be derived from generous monetary input, but it can come in small ways such as recycling our plastic containers and keeping in mind how they'll all add some relief to the good work of our caregivers.
To support, do email projectjkteam@yahoo.com.sg
Was retrieving some updates from our caregivers, and they mentioned on the phone while they were out casting some food for some of our very human-wary stray dogs that they are in need of:
(1) Dog biscuits/kibbles and canfood: it doesn't matter if they're expired (as long as they don't smell rancid). The strayfeeders can't possibly feed the likes of Eukanuba or Timberwolf to our street dogs, so they make do with kind donations of expired food. And our hardy mongrels are able to consume them just as happily.
Some pet shops discard supplies as soon as they are expired. There could be a better system in collecting these food supplies for day-to-day straywork. If you happen to chat with pet shopkeepers, may we ask if you could keep in mind the commercially unwanted supplies that would serve to cut some costs for our strayfeeders.
(2) Plastic takeaway containers: You know the types that are used to store, say, takeaway tow huays? Well these come in handy for containing food and water for our strays too. It's doubly eco-friendly to recycle (containers washed and stored) and pass them to the strayfeeders for their daily operations.
Community support doesn't have to be derived from generous monetary input, but it can come in small ways such as recycling our plastic containers and keeping in mind how they'll all add some relief to the good work of our caregivers.
To support, do email projectjkteam@yahoo.com.sg
March 27, 2007
You sweat in the blazing sun...
.... fouled up your hands with animal waste and discharge, aching backs and dirty shoes, smells and sights of medications and clinical tools ... new dogs, scuffles, healing, sickness and deaths .... at the end of the day when the sun sets, you flop upon the couch ... lullabied by the deep rhythms of dog breaths ... weighted down by a furry bod pressed up tight against yours, heavy but so soothing .... the air so thick with the good odor of dogs that you can't even taste your own sweat.
Don't know about you, but at times, life sounds good like this. Simple. Yet so much more dense with meaning than a leather armchair and a golden tap.
Don't know about you, but at times, life sounds good like this. Simple. Yet so much more dense with meaning than a leather armchair and a golden tap.
Bella
In 2005, still learning my ways and making sense of the animal welfare 'industry', I brought Y to a condo apartment which was a rescue shelter for ten over cats and a few small dogs, after learning from dogpeople.org that Bella was up for adoption.
We learnt that Bella was rescued in a state infested by mites, ticks and fleas, roaming as a motherless puppy, from a Bukit Panjang carpark. As the rescuers had too many on their hands and their vet predicted that Bella would be a huge dog judging from the size of her paws, she was put up for adoption. And Y adopted her. Surprisingly, Bella never grew to be as big as we all anticipated -- a small-to-medium sized dog, instead.
We learnt that Bella was rescued in a state infested by mites, ticks and fleas, roaming as a motherless puppy, from a Bukit Panjang carpark. As the rescuers had too many on their hands and their vet predicted that Bella would be a huge dog judging from the size of her paws, she was put up for adoption. And Y adopted her. Surprisingly, Bella never grew to be as big as we all anticipated -- a small-to-medium sized dog, instead.
Bella, returned from her visit to the dog run, 2005.
Bella, Junior and Y at the dog run. Those were fun times.
Harmony: Kangkang (the cat) lazed about as he confidently watched Junior and Bella at mild play.
25 March 07, Bella to be hospitalised at the vet's.
Today, Bella passed away at the vet's as a result of renal failure. The vet informed renal problems are uncommon among young dogs. We will never know the true cause of Bella's renal failure -- it could be attributed to her diet, stress, dehydration or even poisoning. But if anything, I would like to stress the importance of dogcare, of constant monitoring and interaction with your pet dog, of (making the effort) to know your dog. A dog that refuses to eat or drink in a day or two should raise the red flag and alert you to immediate action. Bella was found with traces of blood on her gums that smelled of creatine and blood urea nitrogen.
I remember going to Y's house and coaxing Bella to move without my carrying her and remember how she did not resist but warmly stayed in my embrace as I held her in the car and carried her to the vet. How she was a calm fighter against the ravages of her illness and how she touched my life during those brief moments as a serene girl, a soulful being, her heartbeat warm against my body.
After six days of struggle, Bella was finally free from pain. She left us with wonderful memories as a sentient being capable of so much inspiration and sweetness, and a joyful family companion in Y's life.
Rest in peace, girl. You are in our hearts.
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