Plenty of worthy charities and organisations in Hong Kong work hard daily to improve the lives of not only people but also abandoned pets and other animals in need. One of these is Kirsten’s Zoo. We chatted to the charity’s founder about her hopes and aims.
Name: Kirsten Mitchell
Nationality: British
Time in Hong Kong: 36 years
What’s the mission of Kirsten’s Zoo?
To (try) to rehabilitate and rehome as many unwanted animals as possible.
Give us an insight into some of the work you do.
We rescue and collect animals from a variety of places and situations, arrange vet appointments, find homes and foster homes, and raise money and awareness.
What do you get out of this work?
I enjoy a few minutes of happiness when one of our animals finds a great home, or recovers from a particularly unpleasant or difficult surgery. Then it’s on to the next one! It sounds cynical, I suppose; however, that’s the nature of what I do.
Tell us about some of the organisation’s achievements to date.
We have successfully rehomed hundreds of cats and dogs, along with rabbits, hamsters, a variety of birds, turtles, hedgehogs, guinea pigs and more.
Is there a particular focus for 2021 and beyond?
This year, we’re trying to help the increasing number of animals in limbo. Families have left Hong Kong and due to a lack of flights and other reasons many pets are still here awaiting confirmation for them to join their families overseas. We’re also aiming to continue to treat, foster and home animals who aren’t so fortunate in Hong Kong.
Can readers volunteer, contribute or help in some other way?
At present it’s more difficult to volunteer, however when the COVID situation eases we will definitely need help. There are volunteer forms online for things like dog adoption days and cat adoption days; you can find more details on the website.
Donations are most welcome, too; again, check the website for details. It’s not only money that’s helpful, but also food, flea and heartworm prevention and more.
Find out more about the charity and the animals available for adoption at kirstenszoo.com and the charity’s Facebook page and Instagram (@kirstenszoo), or contact Kirsten at kirstszoo@hotmail.com.
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