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INTRODUCING CARA
Compassion And Responsibility for Animals
"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated" - Gandhi
 The Philippines is burdened with run-away growth in the stray animal population; on almost every street corner you will see a stray animal struggling to survive. Spaying and neutering is not a well known procedure, and even then, the majority of people do not have the funds to be responsible pet owners. CARA's goal is to make spay/neuter services affordable to those who might not otherwise neuter their pets.
In 2007 the CARA clinic was established, the first dedicated low cost Spay and Neuter clinic in the country, really a giant step in the right direction.
CARA has a completely dedicated team who work against all the odds and without any financial support; the Philippine government does not support animal welfare at all.
Although banned in 1998 the cruel dog meat trade is still very much rife today and cats are viewed the same as rodents; a nuisance to be deterred and eliminated. Newborn kittens are either killed, or dumped alive. Adult cats are poisoned, tortured or have to contend with boiling water being thrown over them.
 Such a sad frustrating situation, mainly due to lack of education in regard to animals. CARA has a group of volunteers who visit local schools and present a Humane Education Module, aimed at promoting animal welfare in a fun but informative manner. Hopefully by starting with the youngest members of the population, CARA can encourage a new generation of people that show compassion to animals.
CARA's focus is neutering to reduce the over population. However they can't turn their backs on the animals in need that they see on the streets. Most are in a very bad state, therefore requiring clinic stays and expert medical attention. Medical bills are always extremely high.
Whilst living in the Philippines I met Gomer, the thinnest dog I have ever seen! After years of working in animal welfare you would think I wouldn't be shocked anymore, but this dog was a skeleton. Gomer was "living" in an area where there are lots of upscale restaurants. I wonder how many people passed him by on their way to their expensive meal, did anyone even give him a second glance where he lay suffering under a bush! Luckily for Gomer, a CARA member did.
Here is how he looks only two months later - his rescuer repors he is really thriving now, she fell in love with him so much he will live with her till the end of his days - one lucky dog!
Fortunately due to CARA's low cost clinic, even if you order the most reasonably priced portrait, the 5% donation allows CARA to get an animal fixed. Therefore you are helping a cat lead a happier life and assisting in a small way to curb the over population in the Philippines.
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