Monday, June 22, 2009

Foundation Animal Welfare Bonaire Requests Assistance

The Bonaire Insider has received a request to assist in getting the word out that the Foundation Animal Welfare Bonaire requires help.  This non-profit association looks out for the welfare of all animals on Bonaire, including pets, such as dogs and cats, and also larger farm animals, such as horses.

As a bit of background information, Elly Albers, the president of the foundation since 2007 and a previous manager of the Bonaire Animal Shelter, informs the Insider that the association investigates allegations of animal abuse, and, if warranted, involves the Justice Department so that the abused animal is removed from the owners and then sheltered elsewhere where it is cared for, while the case goes to court and until there is a decision made.

Within the past year, there was a landmark case which was indeed won in court, and the decision was made not to return the horse to the original owner.  In fact, the case was appealed to a higher court, and it was not overturned.  This particular animal’s jaw had been injured so badly that it cannot accept a bit, and therefore finding a new home for him is nearly impossible.  The association has pledged to take care of this animal for the rest of his life.  The costs for the care and feeding of the horse costs FL 300.00/month (about USD $170.00/month) and the foundation, which exists solely on volunteer work and contributions, has succeeded for the better part of a year to cover these costs.  However, the coffers are becoming low and the foundation seeks out individuals who can help with small donations.

100% of funds received go directly to the feeding and care of the animals under the protection of the foundation.  All board members of the foundation volunteer their time, and no salaries are paid to anyone.  The local vets on Bonaire also donate their time and services to the foundation.

If anyone is interested in helping out, any donation no matter the amount will be sincerely appreciated.  Those on Bonaire can make a donation into the association’s bank account at Maduro & Curiels Bank (Bonaire), account #113.06.706.  Those in the United States may request donations be forwarded through Support Bonaire, available by clicking here, and noting that the funds should go to the Foundation Animal Welfare Bonaire.  Those wishing to make donations from other areas of the world may inquire directly by emailing the association. (Source:  Foundation Animal Welfare Bonaire)