Why as an NGO in Lebanon We Cannot Take In Every Case
We receive many messages and calls at GMAP imploring us to take in or help with cases specifically because we are an NGO in Lebanon. Many people think that NGOs are somehow more capable than the average citizen or rescuer, that they possess more resources, or that they are better equipped. This is not always the case, and here we will explain why.
First, what does it mean to be an NGO in Lebanon?
What is an NGO?
NGO stands for non-governmental organization. This means that NGOs like Give Me A Paw do not receive any support from the Lebanese government or any other government whatsoever. As an NGO in Lebanon, we are entirely reliant on donations for our income and resources.
What is GMAP?
Give Me A Paw is an NGO in Lebanon. We are officially registered with the Lebanese government. Our main mission is to rescue and rehabilitate stray dogs, as well as to raise awareness about their plight in the country. Our other goals include inspiring passion within the public for animals and their rights as well as a deep respect for nature and wildlife. We aim to have a country and a world where every stray is fed, treated, and eventually adopted into a loving home, because it’s hard to be hungry, hurt, and homeless.
How Many Staff and Team Members is GMAP Actually Made of?
Besides GMAP’s founder, Tamara, and GMAP’s cofounder, Sari, there are currently only eight other team members! Each member also comes from a different part of Lebanon, so it is extremely difficult to get to all the places we need to be, not to mention even getting to the actual shelter!
What Resources Do We Have?
We only have one vehicle used for all our shelter’s needs. This vehicle also usually needs regular repairs and body work. For example, at the time this article was being written, it was broken down! We have to use solar panels to provide electricity to the shelter since we are in such a remote area. We also have to get water delivered to our tanks.
We also rely entirely on donations to buy dog food as well as make any repairs on our dogs’ playgrounds. All these repairs are done by hand and by our own staff. Also, as an NGO in Lebanon, every single expense of ours is paid for by donations. We do not have any extra resources or cash. We need to fundraise for each and every item we need.
How Much Space Do We Have?
Our facility is only equipped to house 70 dogs. We now have over 130. This means that we do not have enough space for ANY new intakes. As an NGO in Lebanon, no matter how bad we feel or how much we would like to take in every single case, we simply cannot do so without putting our other residents in danger of overcrowding, fights, and other problems. Additionally, our few staff members will be completely taxed and unable to keep up.
How do We Compare to the Average Rescuer or Citizen?
First of all, we are only a handful of rescuers with jobs and lives of our own, just like the average rescuer or citizen. We struggle to balance our time, expenses, and daily lives with shelter work. The only thing keeping us going is our love for animals as well as the knowledge that if someone does not step in to help, oftentimes nobody will take the initiative. This does not mean that we can handle every single case that comes our way, even though we promise to try our best.
Second, we do not have much more spending power or amenities than the average person. Once again, we must fundraise for resources and treatment. Hence, we also cannot be expected to financially assist with or take on every case in the country, although we will try to help as best we can.
Third, even if all the hurdles above didn’t exist, we are left with the very real issue of space. In order to remain a no-kill shelter as we are committed to being, we must look after each and every dog we rescue until he or she gets adopted. The sad fact is that many do not get adopted and instead pass away from old age at the shelter. This leaves even less space and resources for other dogs.
How Can You Help Us So We Can Help More Animals?
You can volunteer.
You can donate.
You can sponsor a dog.
You can donate supplies.
You can take initiative with rescues.
If you have read this far, thank you so much! Hopefully now you know why we cannot take on every single case. At the same time, now you have a good idea of what you can do to help us take more cases!