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100s of Barbadian dogs will be heading to Canada to find their fur-ever families soon.
This through an Ocean Acres initiative which will see the canines being flown to Canada on a sponsored M Jet flight.
Ocean Acres is aiming to reduce the number of stray and abandoned dogs in Barbados through a shift in focus from pet rescue and long-term care, to education and prevention of animal abuse.
Founder Karen Whittaker says the time has come for a new approach.
She says “we simply do not have the funding to continue incurring tens of thousands in monthly costs to rescue and care for animals, while the numbers continue to grow.”
At least 250 dogs are exepcted to be on the flight which is planned for mid-October. In Canada, they will be received in approved foster homes until offered for adoption.
While M Jet is covering flight expenses, the organisation is still in need of financial help to cover various needs such as crates, dental care, vaccinations, and export and health certificates.
Ms. Whittaker says one aspect that significantly contributes to the success of the initiative is short-term fostering for the dogs before their flight which provides better socialisation, reduces stress, and helps them arrive better prepared to be matched quickly with their perfect forever home.
She has extended an open invitation to businesses, families and individuals interested in lending a hand, whether through contributing towards these costs or being a foster caregiver for the dogs before their journey.
Ms. Whittaker says while Barbadian dogs are often unappreciated locally, their manageable size and good-natured temperament make them a favourite choice for many Canadians seeking house pets.
