by Tanja Larsen
It is without a doubt wonderful when people show their support for our work by dedicating some of their holiday time to visit the centre and help walking the dogs, washing the puppies etc. It is equally wonderful to see how many people use their initiative and take time to raise awareness about animals in Goa and IAR when out and about. This article is dedicated to those people whose efforts to support our work are priceless because without them we would not be able to enjoy the success that we do.
Jessie, Sue and Dophinder - three residents in Goa - have taken to the bars around Calangute, Baga and Candolim in North Goa and they involve the proprietors of their chosen establishments by making them supply our material to their customers, display our posters and sell our merchandise. They are regular supporters of our fundraising events and their valuable support has raised a lot of money for our charity.
Angeline Lobo, owner of Footprints Tours & Travels in Candolim assigned a space in her brochure to an advertisement for IAR at a significantly discounted rate. With 25000 brochures printed this has ensured that our name will be seen by a large amount of people visiting Goa this season. She actively encourages people to pick up our material when they visit her office and to make a generous donation to us.
Ma Thai restaurant in Candolim, owned by Raju Morajkar and Chandan Mapxencar is donating 5% of restaurant bills when diners present a special voucher. Mirabai’s restaurant in Baga, run by Vasu Chodankar is donating 10% when they receive the vouchers. International Animal Rescue would like to thank all of the above for their support and willingness to raise funds at their own expense. These efforts really make a difference!
Last season a new phenomenon emerged in North Goa. It was in the shape of a bright pink tuk tuk containing an odd looking character with a giant afro hair style and a mission to get people out of their chairs and show them a good time. His name is DJ Rick Shaw and he is making regular appearances in Candolim and Calangute for yet another season. The people behind this small enterprise, also known as Mid Life Crisis, are Jackie and Harry Patterson and they joined the International Animal Rescue team of long term volunteers in the beginning of 2005. Four times every week Harry transforms himself into DJ Rick Shaw and entertains the tourists in local bars and restaurants with music from the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. The discos are spiced up with games, quizzes and auctions all aiming to raise money for the animals. These fundraising events are hosted by regular establishments and are a great success. So far this season DJ Rick Shaw is the top seller of IAR Merchandise and only 7 weeks into the season almost RS 75,000 has been raised through the efforts of Jackie and Harry.
A big thank you from everyone at International Animal Rescue. It is a fantastic effort. Thank you also to Peacock Pub, Ruffles Bar & Restaurant, The Pavillion, Jungle Village, Sheldom,s and Sticky Fingers who all take turns in hosting the M.L.C. events.
Last but not least we would like to thank all the volunteers who come to help at the centre. Veterinary surgeons, students, dog walkers, long-term and short-term alike. Everyone contributes towards making us what we are today and ensuring that we can continue to help the ill, suffering and stray animals in Goa.