Page 8 - SpringSummerNL24
P. 8
Trustees’ pages
I can’t believe I am entering my third year as a trustee for GIN. It’s been a
learning curve, but it's also a privilege to have the chance to make a
difference in the lives of galgos, greyhounds, shelters, and everyone who
relies on the charity’s support.
As always, this time of year is particularly challenging for the shelters in
st
Spain. The end of the hunting season on 1 February means an influx of
galgos. Many are abandoned, many are injured, and while we seem to be
hearing of more galgueros (hunters) delivering them to shelters – they are
often dumped at the gates or, in one case, thrown over the walls.
No thought or care is given as to whether the rescue shelters can cope, and
as we know, the dedication of those on the frontline means they cannot turn
away a galgo in need. Many of these dogs require extensive veterinary care
and rehabilitation before they can be rehomed. The pressure is immense, the
financial implications are extensive, and the resilience of the volunteers
saving these dogs' lives is extraordinary.
The shelters receive little to no support from the Spanish authorities, which
is why they are always in desperate need of support—we simply cannot ignore
the plight of these poor animals.
In addition to providing
funding to shelters to cover
food and veterinary care,
GIN is providing financial
support for transportation,
new vans, boarding,
quarantine and kennel Rubi
facilities, education outreach
work, and the building of a Photos: SOS
new shelter for Protectora Galgos
Animales in Caceres.
In 2023, GIN helped 568 dogs, a
7% increase from 2022. We are
dedicated to increasing this number
considerably in 2024. But none of the
help we provide could be done without
you, our wonderful supporters, so as
always, a huge heartfelt thank you
from all of us.
https://greyhoundsinneed.co.uk/shop/
8