Two animal welfare organisations in the spotlight: 'Animal Heroes' helping wildlife survive in Spain and 'Dogs Voice in Greece during the raging fires

 Help animals survive the wildfires in Spain

Support animals suffering from wildfires in Spain www.animalheroes.eu

The devastating wildfires around Madrid and Ávila are destroying habitats and leaving thousands of animals without food or shelter.

Alexandra Leiton Endara is a local and is coordinating the emergency response together with the local council and volunteers from four villages around Ávila, one of the areas hardest hit by the fires. They have established a central collection point where urgently needed supplies are received and distributed to the affected areas according to need.

Our team will travel to the emergency response centre on Sunday to deliver food for wildlife and working animals.

With your donation, we will purchase food and other essential supplies locally for the animals affected by the fires.

The most urgent needs are:

• Bird seed and seed mixes for wild birds.
• Feed for rabbits and other small herbivores.
• Feed for farm animals, including goats, sheep, cows, donkeys and horses.
• Milk replacer for orphaned and rescued young animals.
• Hay, straw and alfalfa for grazing animals.
• Fruit and vegetables for herbivores and wildlife.
• Corn, grain and acorns for wild boar and deer.
• Salt licks for grazing wildlife and livestock.

Our team covers all travel and accommodation costs ourselves. This means that 100% of your donation goes directly towards purchasing emergency food and supplies for animals affected by the wildfires.

Every donation, no matter the size, helps provide life-saving support to animals struggling to survive this disaster.

How can you donate?

Donating is safe, fast, and easy. There are no obligations: you can choose to make a one-time donation. You can make a donation in a few simple steps. After a successful donation, you will receive a donation receipt by email.

Help animals survive the wildfires in Spain - Animal Heroes

                            🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏  

Another fantastic animal welfare organisation : Dogs Voice in Greece

https://www.dogsvoice.gr/      GREECE 

Devastating wildfires have been raging across Europe, and in western Attica, Greece 

An extraordinary rescue mission unfolded for animals caught in the path of the flames. The dedicated team at Dogs’ Voice, joined by veterinarians, municipalities, emergency responders, volunteers, and partner animal welfare organizations, worked tirelessly to bring companion animals, farm animals, and wildlife to safety.

Dogs’ Voice launched its emergency response in Porto Germeno on July 31 as wildfires closed in on homes and communities. Animals were trapped in huts and on properties while rescue teams raced to locate and save the many stray animals scattered throughout the fire-ravaged area.

As the emergency expanded, teams responded across Porto Germeno, Vilia, Megara, Psatha, Prosili, Kryo Pogadi, Agios Nektarios, and surrounding communities.

From frightened dogs and cats to puppies, kittens, geese, chickens, a rescued lamb, farm animals, and wildlife, rescuers searched homes, neighborhoods, and fire-ravaged landscapes, giving vulnerable animals a chance to escape the fires and reach safety.

To support the growing rescue effort, emergency animal rescue stations were established in Vilia and Megara, where displaced animals received temporary shelter, veterinary care, and a safe place to recover while volunteers worked to identify them, reunite companion animals with their families, and arrange foster placements when needed.

Dogs’ Voice described the severity of the emergency, writing:

“The fire is out of control and has now been classified as a mega fire, so new arrivals are expected and the station is on standby to welcome animals that will be in danger in the affected areas.”

During the initial response, the Vilia station recorded 46 companion animals, while another nine animals were transferred to municipal facilities. The station also received two geese and five chickens. Dogs’ Voice reported seeing frightened animals running frantically through the fire-affected area, but in some cases volunteers and firefighters were forced to retreat as conditions became too dangerous.

By the third consecutive day of the response, the rescue stations in Vilia and Megara had already received more than 145 animals. During one particularly dramatic rescue, 12 dogs were safely evacuated from a house that was completely destroyed by fire a short time later.

As the emergency continued, the scale of the rescue effort grew. According to Dogs’ Voice’s latest update, the organization documented:

• 133 companion animals at the Megara Station

• 75 companion animals at the Vilia Station

• 63 farm animals and wildlife

• Six animals receiving veterinary treatment

Heartbreaking images shared by Dogs’ Voice show frightened dogs waiting quietly in evacuation crates, rescued puppies and cats wrapped safely in volunteers’ arms, farm animals receiving care, and exhausted animals finally able to rest after escaping the flames. The photographs offer a powerful glimpse into both the devastation of the disaster and the extraordinary compassion of those risking their lives to save them.

Dogs’ Voice also shared that many of the rescued animals had spent years surviving on their own, fearful of human contact and largely unseen. As the wildfire closed in, many finally allowed rescuers to approach, giving them the opportunity to provide safety, medical care, and compassion—some for the very first time.

Emphasizing that rescue is only the beginning of recovery, the organization wrote:

“A new beginning doesn’t just start if an animal is adopted. It starts from the moment it enters a home, from the first day of its shelter life.”

Reflecting on the extraordinary efforts of rescuers and volunteers, Dogs’ Voice added:

“Every life that comes out alive through the ashes is a small victory over destruction. And we will continue to be there, as long as there is at least one soul waiting for help.”

As rescue operations continued, the organization’s teams were called back to Psatha, where the advancing fire front threatened animals still trapped in huts, while additional rescued animals continued arriving at the Megara Station.

Throughout the emergency response, Greece’s National Mechanism was activated to support the coordinated rescue effort.

As conditions began to stabilize in some areas, Dogs’ Voice announced that the Vilia Station would stop accepting new animals if conditions remained stable. The Megara Station, however, would remain operational as rescue efforts continued.

Rescued animals have since been transferred into veterinary care, foster homes, partner rescue organizations, wildlife rehabilitation centers, and collaborating shelters. Dogs’ Voice has also launched a foster placement initiative for animals that have not yet been reunited with their caretakers or guardians.

Although the organization’s immediate supply needs have largely been met thanks to overwhelming public support, the mission is far from over. Dogs’ Voice is now encouraging compassionate families to open their homes to rescued animals awaiting foster placement as recovery efforts continue.

As western Attica begins the long road to recovery, Dogs’ Voice remains committed to rescuing every animal possible, reuniting families whenever they can, and ensuring rescued animals have the opportunity to find the safe future they deserve.

The organization closed one of its updates with a heartfelt appeal:

“This devastating fire may finally be extinguished, but our efforts continue. If you can open your home now is the time. For those, it can mean everything.”

World Animal News and Peace 4 Animals applaud the extraordinary courage and dedication of the Dogs’ Voice rescue team, veterinarians, firefighters, emergency responders, municipalities, partner organizations, and every volunteer working tirelessly to save animals throughout this devastating disaster. Our thoughts and prayers remain with everyone affected and with every animal beginning the long journey toward recovery.

Please consider supporting the lifesaving work of the incredible animal rescue organization Dogs’ Voice. Your donation helps rescue and care for animals affected by these devastating wildfires. DONATE HERE! 

Dear readers of my blog. unless your are living in Greece or you understand how giving a donation works in Greece, the situation to donate is difficult. I have tried the option PayPal with no success Sorry. Animal Heroes is a Dutch organisation well known and completely trustworthy. The volunteers are in Spain to help.

More than 1,600 live primates listed for sale online in a 6 week period for $250 to $6,500 : transactions as ''rehoming" or "adoption" avoiding the words "for sale"l

 

• A new report by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, International Fund for Animal Welfare, and World Wildlife Fund found more than 1,600 live primates listed for sale on U.S. social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube over a six-week period in mid-2025.
• 
  
  
  
  
• Sellers circumvented platform bans by disguising commercial transactions as “rehoming” or “adoption” efforts, with prices for the 12 documented species, including macaques and marmosets, ranging from $250 to $6,500.
• Many advertised primates were infants, who are often stolen from their mothers in the wild, leading to severe trauma or death during smuggling and contributing to the 60 percent of primate species globally threatened with extinction.
• While TikTok and Google (YouTube) said they prohibit wildlife trafficking and have taken action, experts warn that this accessible online market fuels animal cruelty, biodiversity loss, zoonotic diseases, and other illicit crimes, ranking wildlife trafficking among the top black markets.
• 
  
  
  Marmoset baby monkey for sale
• The report recommends passing the federal Captive Primate Safety Act, urging social media companies to expand prohibited content policies and improve detection and reporting tools, and calling for increased funding and specialized personnel for state and federal enforcement agencies to combat this digital trade.
• 
  
• Source: Jasmine Fernández 
• 
  

In full

• Monkey Business: Primate sales over social media are on the rise across the US, report reveals

Safe Haven for Donkeys: a weekly update from the West Bank with 5 heartwarming photo's

 

The road blocks My heart breaks for these animals. The donkey is so thin......  You may remember that I recently shared an update from our Nablus team in the West Bank, who were forced to turn back from a trip to Senjil, due to road blocks. But they were determined not to let the day go to waste. The team quickly changed course and travelled through several villages before reaching Mazare’ Al Nobani, near Ramallah. By the end of the day, they had provided much-needed care to 31 working donkeys and horses. Here’s an update on what happened - made possible thanks to your support. Kindest regards, Wendy Safe Haven UK Office An update from the West Bank One of the first animals the team treated was a donkey who was struggling to walk after spending several weeks in a cramped and uncomfortable shelter. He had been living alongside a horse in a small space with a rocky, uneven floor. Over time, the poor conditions had taken their toll. He was dehydrated, his muscles had become stiff and painful and he could no longer walk comfortably. Dr Rakan provided urgent care to this donkey, who was severely dehydrated and struggling to walk. Respect for the vet's helper holding the intravenous bottle. That will take 45 minutes After receiving fluids and pain relief, the donkey was also fitted with a soft new head collar. During their visits, they still find donkeys and horses wearing nose chains. These heavy chains can cut into the skin, cause painful pressure sores and, over time, lead to lasting damage. Whenever the team finds an unsuitable chain, they remove it and replace it with a soft, properly fitted one, or hand made padded covers, helping owners guide their animals safely without causing unnecessary pain. A new head collar may seem like a small change, but it can make a huge difference to a working animal’s comfort every day. Dr Rakan also makes practical changes like this - replacing harsh chains with soft, properly fitted head collars. Thank You Erna  Your support helps our veterinary teams reach working donkeys, horses and mules with the treatment and medicines they urgently need. It also allows them to work alongside owners, making practical changes that can prevent further pain and suffering. Thank you for helping these gentle animals live healthier and more comfortable lives. Help our vet teams reach more donkeys Thanks to your support, our mobile teams can provide urgent veterinary care while also helping owners prevent future suffering. If you'd like to read previous updates of our work, please click here to visit out blog. You can also view today's update online by clicking here. Registered charity number 1083468

10 photo's) Friendships are blossoming at Wildlife SOS India, finding comfort and joy in one another's company, these bonds have contributed to healing after their painful past

  The Heartwarming Friendships At Wildlife SOS 

Coconut and  Peanut  friends for ever

The Heartwarming Friendships  Wildlife SOS 

• Nandita Sharma
• August 2026

Each friendship is unique and special. With some friends, you spend every moment talking, while some offer quiet comfort simply through their presence. There isn’t a strict definition to friendship, and that is what allows beautiful bonds to blossom.  

Interestingly, animals too form meaningful connections. At Wildlife SOS centres, our caregivers have witnessed these remarkable friendships develop among the rescued animals who have overcome challenging pasts.

2 Flapshell turtles are close friends

From inseparable companions to lifelong sibling-hoods, here are some of the friendships that make Wildlife SOS centres feel more like home.

Those Who Refuse To Drift Apart

At the Elephant Hospital Campus (EHC), Lakshmi and Pari share a bond that has become one of the most cherished friendships. Their closeness brings a smile to every observer’s face. Both elephants arrived at the centre in 2021 after facing years of neglect and hardship. Lakshmi was called the “skinniest elephant of India”, and Pari had suffered from painful foot ailments. The two developed an unexpected friendship while on their journey of healing, finding immense comfort in each other’s presence.

Their companionship began during their daily walks, when they would often meet and spend time together. Even when one or both their walks were suspended for health reasons, their bond remained strong. This connection became even more evident during their supervised visits arranged by their caregivers, when the two would greet each other with enthusiastic trumpets, soft rumbles and even subtle ground vibrations that elephants can detect through their feet. Seeing how they enjoyed each other’s company, caregivers would often allow them to spend additional time together.

 Pari and Lakshmi’s strong companionship can be seen when they meet and stand right next to one another. [Photo © Wildlife SOS/Mradul Pathak]

 The Centre’s Power Couple

Both having been rescued as cubs, Kamli and Suri have developed a close companionship over the years. Caregivers at the Agra Bear Rescue Facility (ABRF) often describe them as a “perfect pair”, and there’s good reason for that. Though the two spend a lot of time together, it’s Kamli’s nature to pay close attention to Suri, making sure he is never out of her sight. If Suri is out there interacting with another bear, or begins exploring a different area, Kamli is only a short distance behind. She always seems to know where her partner is and what he is up to.

Wherever Suri(R) is in his field, you can be sure that Kamli (L) is right there too. 
 [Photo © Wildlife SOS/Mradul Pathak]

Their relationship has become familiar to caregivers, who can only separate the two during mealtime as both bears prefer to relish their own share all by themselves. Having been pulled apart from their families at an early age, both have found a sense of support in each other, forming a bond that continues to flourish today.

The Group That Everyone Wants To Join

At Elephant Conservation and Care Centre (ECCC), Maya, Phoolkali, and Emma’s herd perfectly captures the spirit of friendship. Maya and Phoolkali shared a strong bond long before Emma arrived. Initially, Maya, was hesitant to let anyone come close to her companion, but Phoolkali’s wise and welcoming nature helped bridge the gap, and over time, Emma became an inseparable part of the group. Phoolkali has also displayed remarkable wisdom. Recognising that Maya had grown into a capable leader, she gradually stepped back from her role as matriarch, allowing Maya to confidently take charge of the mini herd.

This story of friendship has more to tell. There was another elephant eyeing to enter this group, and this was Tara. Tara often seemed fascinated to see the three during their daily walks. Caregivers frequently observed her showing interest in joining the trio, hoping to be welcomed into an already established sisterhood. Eventually, Tara did become a loving member of the herd, and she joins them in their daily activities. Tara’s energetic and playful personality often encourages Emma to engage more during their walks. Although Emma has a quieter nature, the pair have formed a close bond that is reflected in their gentle interactions, often observed by their caregivers.

Their interactions offer a fascinating glimpse into the social intelligence and emotional complexity of elephants that we often forget to notice.

Maya, Phoolkali, Emma, and Tara are truly a vision together, showing us that they are indeed a close-knit herd. [Photo © Wildlife SOS/Vineet Singh]

The Friends Who Always Check In

Another form of friendship thrives through simple gestures and just by being there in quietude. Holly and Kalpana share that while being in the same enclosure.

Holly, one of the EHC’s eldest residents, requires specialised care for her foot-related health concerns and is unable to take long, daily walks. Whenever Kalpana heads out for walks, Holly patiently waits for her return. Remarkably, Holly often seems to know that Kalpana is on her way back long before she comes into view. Caregivers frequently observe the pair exchanging loud trumpets when they reunite, almost as if catching up on everything that happened while they were apart, even if it has only been a couple of hours.

Holly (L) and Kalpana (R) are the happiest in each other’s company.
[Photo © Wildlife SOS/Vineet Singh]

Kalpana has also been a great source of support for Holly during her medical checkups, often standing by her side like a pillar of strength. When Holly prefers to sleep in the pool due to her leg pain, Kalpana is quick to stand by the poolside to guard her. Their companionship demonstrates that some friendships are defined not by grand adventures, but by simply being there for each other during difficult times.

Partners In Play

Meanwhile, at the Bannerughatta Bear Rescue Centre (BBRC), Swati and Gubbi showcase a different kind of friendship. Both the bears were rescued from human-wildlife conflict and were introduced to each other due to their amiable personalities. The pair has become inseparable since then. Their day is spent together, exploring enrichments made in the form of wooden structures and enjoying peanut butter-based treats. One of the most endearing examples of their companionship is a cave that they created together, transforming a simple space into a shared retreat.

After spending the day playing together, Gubbi (L) and Swati (R) are often found resting side by side.[Photo © Wildlife SOS/Akash Dolas]

Sibling Coded Energy

At the Manikdoh Leopard Rescue Centre (MLRC), we are witnessing young leopards forming exceptional bonds that have grown over the years. Although leopards are naturally solitary, the sibling groups at the centre have formed close relationships and are rarely seen apart.

Born at the centre, Disha and Khushboo are sisters who have shared their lives from the very beginning. Raised alongside their mother, Brinda, the two continue to coexist playfully and peacefully, spending most of their time with each other.

Both Disha (L) and Khushboo (R) often play peekaboo with our staff photographers when they are out to capture pictures of the sisters. [Photo © Wildlife SOS/Akash Dolas]

Aditi and Shivshree share a different story. The two orphaned cubs were rescued from the same location and arrived at MLRC just days apart from each other. They were barely eight months of age and needed expert care. The two found comfort and confidence in one another’s company. Growing up together has allowed the two to freely explore their enriched habitat. They climb on platforms, navigate trees, and engage in long and wonderful interactions while they are together.

Aditi (L) is the more outgoing of the two, but she never stays far from Shivashree (R).  
[Photo © Wildlife SOS/Akash Dolas]

And then, there are Disney and Flash, siblings born to rescued and pregnant leopard Greta at the centre. Though Flash occasionally displays a more assertive and frisky personality in comparison to Disney, particularly around feeding time, the young two-year-old siblings remain closely bonded. Together, they spend their days playfully, growing into healthy young leopards.

While both siblings frequently indulge in mock-fights and tumbles, Disney (R) and Flash (L) share a deeply close connection. [Photo © Wildlife SOS/Akash Dolas]

These stories serve as a reminder that companionship, even among siblings, can play an important role in the growth and development of young ones.

Happy Friendship Day, every day!