From 14 to 21 March, it was time again: our 5th neutering project took us at Animal Passion to Zagreb, Croatia, for the second time.
An intense week full of hard work, team spirit and moving moments lies behind us, and we look back with great gratitude on what we were able to achieve together.
In total, we neutered 242 cats and toms. Every single neutering is an important step towards reducing the suffering of street cats for the long term and preventing uncontrolled reproduction.
Challenges overcome
A small upset right at the start presented us with unexpected challenges: instead of the planned 11 team members, at short notice there were only 7 of us. What first looked like a setback quickly became an example of real team spirit. With great commitment, flexibility and mutual support, we handled the situation brilliantly together.
Strong support on the ground
We are especially grateful for the support we received on site. A dedicated Croatian veterinarian at the shelter lent us a helping hand. Just as indispensable were the local cat trappers, above all the wonderful Sandra. She and her team tirelessly caught cats, brought them to us and, after their operations, safely returned them to their usual spots. Without this help, a project of this scale wouldn't have been possible.
More than "just" neutering
In addition to the planned neuterings, we were also able to carry out numerous additional medical treatments. These included wound care, eye treatments and dental surgery, in which badly damaged teeth had to be removed.
Sadly, there are also sad moments in our work: there was one cat we could no longer help. But we were at least able to give her a dignified farewell and release her from pain she had probably been suffering for a long time.
Another case, however, shows the beautiful side of our work: a tomcat with very severe eye injuries had to undergo surgery, and neither eye could be saved. But there was a happy ending for him: he got to move into a loving home with a Croatian animal welfare worker and now receives the care he so urgently needs.
Creative support: "We'll neuter your ex"
A very special highlight of this project was our fundraiser "We'll neuter your ex", an idea with a wink and a big impact. Supporters could sponsor a neutering, 10 euros for a tom and 25 euros for a female cat, and in return got to name the animal after their ex-partner.
The response was overwhelming: in total, we raised almost 3,000 euros. Sponsorships were taken on for 187 cats, which covered around 65% of the project's costs. This creative campaign not only put a smile on many faces, but above all made a hugely important contribution to the success of our mission. We are overwhelmed by the support and say from the bottom of our hearts: thank you!
A project that brings people together
This project showed once again how much can be achieved when people work together for a good cause, across borders. We are proud of our team, grateful for the support on the ground and motivated to keep going in the future.
For the animals. For more compassion. For sustainable animal welfare.
