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A message from Richard Eastwood and Adele Ashley – Volunteers at ACE SHIN La Cala de Mijas.
In recent weeks, I and my friend have had the privilege – and the heartbreak – of volunteering at ACE SHIN, La Cala de Mijas, the local dog shelter dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming abandoned and mistreated dogs.
What we’ve witnessed has been both harrowing and heartwarming – a stark reminder of the resilience of these incredible animals and the vital role we can all play in giving them the second chance they deserve.
When I entered the shelter for my first visit, I saw dogs of every age, size, and breed, all with eager eyes. Their expressions told their stories. Some were full with hope, tails waving, and delighted to simply have someone to walk. Others sat silently in the corners of their cages, their trust damaged by experiences of neglect or abuse. When I sat with these more withdrawn souls and offered nothing but gentle companionship and a quiet hand, I saw glimmers in their eyes that had previously given up.
Many of these dogs suffered indescribable hardships. Some were abandoned when they were no longer ‘convenient,’ and others rescued from dire conditions where they were mistreated or left to fend for themselves. They are able to forgive, and even love again, despite all the abuse they have endured.
But ACE SHIN is not able to do this on its own. The shelter constantly faces an overwhelming demand – not just for finding loving homes, but for the basic essentials that keep these dogs healthy and comfortable. We can all make a difference by working together as a community.
What you can do to help:
- Donations of bedding and towels: There is always a high demand for old blankets, towels and bedding. These items provide warmth and support, particularly for those dogs that have only ever known cold floors.
- Every bowl counts! Your contributions, whether they are treats or dry food in cans or jars, keep the dogs happy and their bellies full.
- Donations of harnesses and other equipment: The shelter always needs new equipment, such as harnesses that fit all sizes for safe and comfortable walks with the dogs. The shelter is always in need of sturdy toys, which provide mental stimulation, comfort and play for the dogs while they await their forever homes.
- Adopt or Foster – If you are thinking about adding a furry companion to your family, visit ACE SHIN. There’s a dog for every home – young, old, big, small, playful, or calm. Fostering can change a dog’s life if adoption is not an option. It gives them a comfortable temporary home to wait for their forever family.
- Sponsor a Dog. If you cannot adopt or foster dogs, you can support them by sponsoring one. A monthly donation of a few dollars can help pay for food, medical costs and shelter. This will ensure that the dog is loved and cared-for, even if it doesn’t yet have a permanent home.
- Volunteer: Just a few hours of your time can make a world of difference – whether it’s walking dogs, sitting with the shy ones, or helping with day-to-day tasks at the shelter.
Giving your time, donating, or providing a home for these dogs will bring you an emotional reward that is hard to describe. The dogs’ gratitude is shown in the wagging of their tails, the gentle nuzzling and the soft sighs they give when feeling safe for the very first time.
If you’d like to help, please contact Fabienne Paques, Founder, Animal Care España (ACE) SHIN La Cala de Mijas at. 0034 610 752 350. www.ace-charity.org. We can all make a difference by changing the lives these deserving animals. Each dog deserves to have a chance. Sometimes, it only takes someone like you.
Richard Eastwood and Adele Ashley – Volunteers
