JOOP visits SAT
Youngsters and dogs, both with difficulties, ' working and playing together in harmony'
THE YOUTH development programme Jove Oportunitat ( JOOP) recently visited the SAT ( Sociedad Protectora para Animales de Torrevieja) kennels in Dolores as part of a professional and life development programme.
This initiative for young people aged between 16 and 21 from the areas of Dolores, Orihuela and Pilar de la Horadada is a collaboration between Valencia regional givernment, the IVAJ ( Valencian youth institute) and the European Union to help guide, support and develop young people who do not have academic qualifications or work experience.
Respecting the current Covid- 19 restrictions, a small group of boys and girls and their teachers/ coaches enjoyed spending the morning finding out about SAT and the work we do for animal welfare.
Jess and volunteer Diane greeted the participants and introduced them to the ins and outs of SAT. Following a brief history of the organisation and how it all started in 1992, they went on to explain the practical work carried out by the shelter's hardworking team that has helped more than 8,000 dogs to date, without any official government funding.
They not only explained what to do if you find a lost or abandoned dog, what SAT does once a dog enters the kennel, the adoption process, and how to care for a dog, but they also shared the invaluable work of everyone who supports this non- profit organisation - volunteers, supporters, donors - our friends!
Some lively discussions ensued as opinions regarding animal welfare, the law, etc. were challenged, but it was gratifying to see the young people really considering what was being said. They were especially surprised to learn that SAT received no funding and that it was primarily funded by our charity shops and fundraisers. Some of the participants asked many questions and were particularly interested in pursuing
careers in the animal world, such as a veterinarian, veterinary nurse, dog groomer, and even working in a rescue centre.
They then went on to meet the real stars of the show: the dogs! Buddy, Dino, Chad, Simba, Gracie and Dory behaved impeccably as the visitors took the leashes. The mini training session for the youngsters and their new best friends was a great success and everyone involved had a blast - it was amazing to see these youngsters and dogs, both experiencing difficulties in life, working and playing together in harmony.
A big thank you to everyone who participated and made this a very enjoyable experience. Good luck for the future to all the JOOP participants.
Education is a vital part of life and at SAT we are always especially delighted to be involved in animal welfare education.