Japan Animal Relief + Thoughts
I don't know what to say that hasn't already been said. The events of Japan have devastated me beyond that of any past disaster during my lifetime. 9-11 was a shock which left me numb. Katrina was stressful, but I was in Japan, and I was damaged and voluntarily calloused towards my American past at the time. While Haiti was sad, I have no emotional bond to any of those places like I do with Japan, and my friends and even those I don't know are in my mind every day as I see the survivors on the television.
I just need to avoid television for the next week or so.
I am also keeping track of several animal relief efforts in Japan. Of course I am very concerned for the people - but the Japanese are resilient, and they will bounce back. Not to mention they are getting all the coverage and of course they are priority for the rescue efforts. All too often, though, are the poor dogs and cats (and other animals) neglected during time of trouble, and I want to do what I can to make sure they get some relief as well.
For anyone interested in the animal welfare aspect on the Japanese front, I can personally attest to the following places to donate:
ARK: Animal Refuge Kansai - This group is the one I have personally worked with, having fostered four cats (two adults and two kittens) during my time in Tokyo. (They have a Tokyo branch.) They are wonderful people and spare no expense to rescue pets in need of shelter and care.
Japan Cat Network - A great place to keep track of the current events and how it effects the kitties of Japan. Donation links are available on the right sidebar.
Nippon SPCA - Heard of the ASPCA? Well Japan has one too! Donate here - even after the earthquake recovery is passed, even!
World Vets - A worldwide organization has focused its efforts on Japan, and you can donate here.
Currently I'm trying to come up with a way I can raise money to donate, since my funds are somewhat limited. But what do I have to offer that people would want?
I just need to avoid television for the next week or so.
I am also keeping track of several animal relief efforts in Japan. Of course I am very concerned for the people - but the Japanese are resilient, and they will bounce back. Not to mention they are getting all the coverage and of course they are priority for the rescue efforts. All too often, though, are the poor dogs and cats (and other animals) neglected during time of trouble, and I want to do what I can to make sure they get some relief as well.
For anyone interested in the animal welfare aspect on the Japanese front, I can personally attest to the following places to donate:
ARK: Animal Refuge Kansai - This group is the one I have personally worked with, having fostered four cats (two adults and two kittens) during my time in Tokyo. (They have a Tokyo branch.) They are wonderful people and spare no expense to rescue pets in need of shelter and care.
Japan Cat Network - A great place to keep track of the current events and how it effects the kitties of Japan. Donation links are available on the right sidebar.
Nippon SPCA - Heard of the ASPCA? Well Japan has one too! Donate here - even after the earthquake recovery is passed, even!
World Vets - A worldwide organization has focused its efforts on Japan, and you can donate here.
Currently I'm trying to come up with a way I can raise money to donate, since my funds are somewhat limited. But what do I have to offer that people would want?