Almost Back to Normal, But Still Need Help: Supporting Animal Rescue in San Diego & Tijuana
Introduction:
In the last 15 years, Friends of Humane Services Tijuana (FHSTJ) has faced numerous challenges, including two global economic downturns and the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout these trying times, FHSTJ has demonstrated remarkable resilience, thanks to the unwavering support of kind-hearted donors. However, even as the world slowly returns to a semblance of normalcy, FHSTJ still requires assistance to ensure their animal rescue efforts can continue and thrive.
FHSTJ supports 4 Tijuana grassroots animal rescue organizations in addition to several individual rescuers. These groups/people have no significant funding sources locally and rely on FHSTJ to provide needed services to pets of people with extremely limited income as well as to street animals in desperate need of food, medical attention, and protection. The greater Tijuana, Mexico area borders the greater San Diego, California area and these services contribute to a healthier environment for both American and Mexican communities along the border.
For the fiscal year ending on 30 June 2023, FHSTJ provided 1225 free spay/neuter surgeries for animals of rescuers and people with limited resources, 2537 treatments for mange and parasites, 431 veterinary medical/surgical treatments for animals of rescuers, placed 64 dogs in forever homes in the San Diego area, facilitated 52 cat and dog adoptions in Mexico, and distributed 17,496 pounds of pet food.
Weathering Economic Storms and the Pandemic:
FHSTJ, a dedicated California non-profit animal rescue organization operating in both San Diego and Tijuana, has faced its fair share of hardships. Economic recessions can severely impact non-profit organizations like FHSTJ, leading to reduced donations and heightened operational challenges. Despite these difficulties, the compassionate team of volunteers at FHSTJ worked tirelessly to provide humane care and support to vulnerable animals.
Then came the unexpected blow of the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted lives and economies worldwide. The pandemic created new obstacles for FHSTJ, with social distancing restrictions impacting their ability to carry out adoption events and fundraising campaigns. Yet, undeterred, the organization adapted by focusing on virtual adoption drives and finding innovative ways to connect pets with loving homes.
The Power of Kind-Hearted Donations:
Throughout these tough times, FHSTJ has been incredibly fortunate to receive donations from supporters who recognize the vital importance of their mission. These contributions have been the lifeblood that sustains the organization and enables them to provide food, medical care, and loving attention to animals in dire need.
The new generation and youth have even got involved with FHSTJ’s animal rescue services. Young heroes to the animals at Olympian High School in Chula Vista are supporting FHSTJ through projects conducted by the student organization: Dogs Rescue Without Borders.
The Road to Full Recovery:
As the world inches closer to pre-pandemic normalcy, FHSTJ’s dedicated team is thrilled to report that their animal rescue efforts are almost back to normal. They have managed to adapt, persevere, and continue their mission of saving lives and promoting responsible pet ownership.
Nonetheless, FHSTJ is not out of the woods just yet. The organization still faces challenges in regaining financial stability completely. The road to full recovery may be a bit longer, and the need for continued donations is more critical now than ever, especially when the US dollar Is buying less in Mexico due to currency fluctuations.
Decreased donations during the Covid crisis caused FHSTJ to ration some non-urgent animal care as well as defer items such as equipment maintenance. Now, thanks to their faithful supporters, things are almost back to normal. While FHSTJ did curtail some services, they were able to maintain a program for rescues and free spay and neuter for animals of rescuers and persons living in the poorest neighborhoods of Tijuana. With your continued support, they should be able to bring the level of preventive veterinary care services back to normal as well as catch up on equipment maintenance.
The Need for Ongoing Support:
FHSTJ’s resilience and unwavering commitment to animal welfare make them a beacon of hope for countless animals in need. As they continue to care for abandoned, abused, and neglected animals, they require the continued support of kind-hearted individuals and animal lovers.
Donations, no matter how big or small, can make a significant difference in providing essential supplies, medical care, and rehabilitation for the animals in their care. Thus, not only helping the animals, but preventing animal to human diseases such as Lyme disease and rickettsia.
Additionally, these funds help support community outreach and education programs that promote responsible pet ownership and reduce the number of stray animals on the streets.
Conclusion:
Friends of Humane Services Tijuana (FHSTJ) has demonstrated remarkable resilience over the last 15 years, navigating through two global economic downturns and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Thanks to the generosity of compassionate donors, they have weathered these storms and are almost back to normal in their animal rescue efforts.
However, the journey is not over yet. FHSTJ still needs the continued support of kind-hearted individuals to sustain their crucial work in rescuing and caring for animals in San Diego and Tijuana. Your donations can truly make a difference in the lives of these innocent creatures and help FHSTJ move forward toward a brighter future. Let us come together and lend a helping hand to ensure FHSTJ’s vital mission thrives for years to come. Visit their website at https://rpx.81d.myftpupload.com/ and their YouTube channel, FHSTJ 2023, to learn more about FHSTJ’s work and how you can contribute to the cause. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of animals in need.