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At ROLDA UK, we truly believe that every life matters. This inspiring story from Ukraine shines a light on an incredible rescuer, Irina Didur, whose unwavering commitment to helping street animals is transforming lives one rescue at a time. Her most recent mission to save a precious little dog named Busya beautifully illustrates the resilience and love that are essential for caring for animals in urgent need.

A Life of Dedication and Compassion

Irina Didur, a passionate animal rescuer from Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine, has devoted many years to saving vulnerable street animals. Her heart is especially soft for those that are injured and in need, and she simply can’t walk past a creature in distress. Irina beautifully exemplifies how one person can truly make a remarkable difference through compassion and dedication.

Meeting Busya: A Little Dog in Big Trouble

On a routine day, Irina spotted a small, frightened dog wandering alone and visibly unwell. She named her Busya, a gentle name for a gentle soul. Despite her initial fear, Busya quickly sensed the kindness in Irina’s touch. With her tail tucked and body trembling, Busya gradually allowed Irina to get closer. Through her quiet patience, Irina gained Busya’s trust and took her to a veterinary clinic to assess the little dog’s condition.

A Dire Diagnosis: Fighting for Busya’s Life

At the veterinarian, Busya was found to have severe enteritis, which leads to inflammation of the intestines. This illness poses a serious risk, particularly for a dog as frail and defenceless as Busya. The veterinary team swiftly initiated intensive treatment to save her life, administering hydration, medication, and vital nutrients. Irina stayed close, providing the comforting reassurances that Busya urgently needed. She is committed to helping Busya recover through nutritious food, medical attention, and abundant love.

Inspiring a Wave of Compassion

Irina’s dedication to Busya showcases her passion for animal welfare and her dream of a world where every stray receives care. Her efforts shine as a beacon of hope within her community, motivating others to embrace animals in need. Each small act of kindness contributes to a better future for strays, both in Ukraine and around the world.

You Can Help Too

Busya’s story is one of many, yet each reflects the urgency and importance of supporting animal rescue efforts. Through ROLDA UK, you can contribute to life-saving missions like Irina’s, providing these vulnerable animals with a second chance at life and love.
Together, let’s help bring Busya—and many more like her—back to health. Join us in supporting rescuers like Irina, who fight tirelessly for the welfare of animals in Ukraine. Every donation, big or small, makes a difference. You can support our mission today!

Conclusion

As we follow Busya’s path to recovery, her story serves as a testament to the resilience, courage, and love essential for healing even the most shattered lives. At ROLDA UK, we draw inspiration from heroes like Irina, who illuminate the darkest situations for animals in need. Thank you for joining us on this journey—your support ignites hope and healing for animals everywhere.

In the UK, pet enthusiasts are known for their compassion and drive to make a difference. If you’re passionate about helping animals in need, ROLDA UK offers many ways to raise funds that can have a life-changing impact on stray animals. Whether you’re looking for tried-and-true fundraising ideas or unique challenges to test your limits, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into some exciting ways to raise funds for ROLDA UK, along with a few challenges that will make your fundraising journey even more rewarding.

1. Host a Fundraising Event

Events are a great way to bring people together and rally around a cause. Here are some ideas to get you started:
● Charity Bake Sale: Brits love a good bake sale! Invite friends, family, and colleagues to enjoy homemade treats and support a great cause.
● Quiz Night: Host a quiz night at your local pub or community centre. Charge a small entry fee, and consider offering a prize for the winning team!
● Pet Fashion Show: Organise a pet fashion show where pet owners can showcase their furry friends in stylish outfits. Entry fees can go directly to ROLDA UK.

2. Challenge Yourself with a Physical Goal

Taking on a physical challenge can be an incredible way to raise funds and awareness. Here are a few ideas:
● Sponsored Walk or Run: Sign up for a local race, or organise a walkathon. You can encourage friends and family to sponsor your miles to reach your fundraising target.
● Cycling Challenge: Challenge yourself to a bike ride across the countryside or even through the city streets.
● Swimathon: If you love swimming, why not set a distance goal and ask people to sponsor each lap you complete?

3. Leverage Online Fundraising Platforms

Online platforms make it easier than ever to reach a broad audience. Here are some tips to maximise your reach:
● Crowdfunding Campaigns: Set up a campaign on popular platforms like JustGiving or GoFundMe. Share your story about why you’re fundraising for ROLDA UK, and provide updates to keep people engaged.
● Social Media Fundraising: Use platforms like Facebook or Instagram to share your campaign. Make sure to include visuals, such as photos of animals ROLDA has helped or a video message from you explaining your mission.
● Matched Giving: Some companies offer matched donations, doubling the impact of employee contributions. Check if your employer provides this option and encourage coworkers to get involved.

4. Fun and Creative Fundraising Ideas

Fundraising doesn’t always have to be traditional. Think outside the box with these creative ideas:
● Virtual Pet Portraits: If you have an artistic side, offer pet portraits in exchange for donations. People can send you photos of their pets, and you can create a digital or physical portrait using drawings or paintings.
● Charity Garage Sale: Clean out your home and host a charity garage sale to help others. All proceeds can go to ROLDA UK, and it’s a great way to recycle items you no longer need.
● Monthly Pledge Challenge: Encourage supporters to pledge a small monthly donation. Set a goal for the number of pledges you aim to reach, and share regular updates to keep your supporters engaged.

5. Corporate Sponsorships and Partnerships

Teaming up with a business can be a game-changer for fundraising. Here are some ways to get started:
● Reach Out to Local Businesses: Ask if they’d like to sponsor your fundraising challenge or event, or if they can donate a percentage of their sales to ROLDA UK.
● Organise a Workplace Challenge: Encourage your workplace to run a company-wide fundraiser. Departments or teams could compete to raise the most, or take on a collective challenge like a charity run.

Overcoming Common Fundraising Challenges

Fundraising isn’t always easy, and there can be some bumps along the way. Here are a few common challenges and tips on how to tackle them:
● Getting People’s Attention: In a world full of distractions, standing out can be tough. Use compelling visuals, personal stories, and frequent updates to keep your cause fresh in people’s minds.
● Staying Motivated: Fundraising is a marathon, not a sprint. Setting smaller milestones can help keep your motivation high, especially during longer campaigns.
● Handling Rejection: Not everyone will be able or willing to donate, and that’s okay. Focus on those who are interested and supportive, and remember that every small contribution counts.

Conclusion

Fundraising for ROLDA UK can be a fulfilling experience, whether you’re hosting an event, taking on a challenge, or running an online campaign. No matter the approach, every penny raised will make a difference for animals in need. So, choose a challenge that excites you, invite others to join in, and enjoy the journey of helping animals in need. Together, let’s make a lasting, positive impact.

Ready to Get Started?

Join the ROLDA UK community today and start planning your fundraiser. Every effort counts, and with your help, we can continue to protect and care for vulnerable animals across the UK and beyond.

It’s National Pet Month, and here at ROLDA, we’re rolling out the red carpet for some of our furry residents looking for their forever homes! This special month celebrates the joy, love, and adventure pets bring to our lives. If you’re considering welcoming a four-legged friend into your life, now is the perfect time—and our ROLDA dogs can’t wait to meet you!

Why Adopt from ROLDA?

The Romanian League in Defense of Animals (ROLDA) rescues and cares for Romania’s homeless, abandoned, and abused dogs, giving them a second chance at a happy life. Each of our dogs has a unique story and a big heart, and they are waiting to share their lives with a loving family. By adopting from ROLDA, you’re not only transforming a dog’s life, but you’re also helping us make room for future rescues. Plus, you’ll get a loyal friend who will never leave your side!

Meet Some of Our Adorable, Adoptable Stars!

Here’s a sneak peek at some of the amazing dogs ready to fill your life with love, joy, and tail wags.

PAMELA – Meet Pamela, a joyful and playful 3-year-old German Shepherd who is ready to bring love and laughter into a new forever home. Pamela is bursting with energy and has a naturally happy personality. She gets along with other dogs at the shelter, making her the perfect addition to a home that already has a dog. Equally, Pamela would enjoy all the fuss and attention that being an only dog would bring, provided someone was at home for most of the time. Pamela would thrive in a home where she receives all the love, attention, and exercise that she craves. Pamela is waiting for you!
ALBITA – Albita is 4 years old and has been in the shelter for a long time. He is shy to start with, but is friendly with both people and other dogs. Learning to walk on a lead. Not cat tested.
BLANCA – This super-friendly 5-year-old girl is sure to melt your heart! Blanca is walking well on a lead. Blanca shares her pen with 2 other dogs with whom she gets on well. Blanca is also fine with cats.
SPIKE – Say hello to Spike! Gorgeous Spike was left at the shelter by his owners after they had a baby and no longer wanted him. Despite this, Spike remains a playful and happy little boy who gets along well with other dogs. Spike is 4 years old.
ROHAN – Rohan is 3 years old and was rescued from the streets. He is an energetic boy who is friendly and happy. Rohan likes other dogs and human company. Rohan is learning to walk on a lead. He has not been cat tested.
PHILIPPE – You will flip for Philippe! This lovely, happy little boy was left unwanted at a vet’s office, unwanted, with his mum and brothers. Philippe gets on well with other dogs and walks well on his lead.

Why Adopt During National Pet Month?

This month is a great time to celebrate the love and companionship that pets bring to people’s lives, but it’s also a great opportunity to meet dogs who are eager to find a family just like yours. Imagine the joy of knowing that you’re giving a dog a second chance at a happy life—there’s truly nothing more rewarding.

How You Can Help (Even If You’re Not Ready to Adopt Just Yet)

If you’re not ready to adopt but still want to make a difference, there are many ways to support ROLDA’s mission! You can:
● Sponsor a Dog: Help cover the cost of food, medical care, and shelter for a dog in need.
● Donate: Your contributions make it possible for us to rescue and care for more dogs.
● Share: Spread the word! Share our adoptable dogs on social media or tell your friends about ROLDA.

Ready to Adopt? Here’s How to Get Started!

If one of these dogs (or another from our shelter) has stolen your heart, we’d love to help make the adoption process as smooth as possible. Head over to our adoption page, fill out an application, and our team will be in touch to discuss the next steps.
Remember, every adoption story changes lives—both yours and theirs. This National Pet Month, let’s make some happy tails wag!

Adopt, don’t shop. Together, let’s give these amazing dogs the forever homes they deserve.

Every April 4th, people worldwide recognise World Stray Animals Day, a day devoted to raising awareness about the millions of stray animals struggling to survive on the streets, in neighbourhoods, and in urban areas worldwide. For ROLDA, this day serves as a powerful reminder of why our work is important and why, with the help of our supporters, we continue to advocate for the voiceless animals in need.

Stray Animals’ Reality

For many strays, life on the streets is an endless struggle. These animals often lack reliable access to food, clean water, and medical care. Exposure to disease, harsh weather conditions, and the dangers of traffic only adds to their suffering. Sadly, most stray animals also endure neglect, abuse, or simply the indifference of passersby. In Romania, where ROLDA operates, the stray animal population is in the hundreds of thousands, and many animals face grim conditions every day.

At ROLDA, we witness the profound impact that street life has on these vulnerable creatures. Nevertheless, we also observe their resilience and spirit. With the proper support and care, many of these animals can lead fulfilling, happy lives—and that’s where our work commences.

Why ROLDA’s Work Matters

ROLDA was established with a clear mission: to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome stray animals while creating long-term solutions to end the cycle of suffering. Throughout the years, we have developed a variety of programmes that address the root causes of stray animal overpopulation while providing immediate support to those in need.

1. Rescue and Rehabilitation

Our dedicated team of rescuers responds to calls for animals in distress. Once an animal is brought to one of our shelters, they receive a thorough medical check-up, vaccinations, and any necessary treatments. Our team works tirelessly to rehabilitate animals physically and emotionally, providing them with a safe, caring environment where they can begin to heal.

2. Rehoming and Adoption Programs

For every animal we rescue, we strive to find them a forever home. Our adoption programmes have successfully rehomed animals both locally and internationally. Every adoption is a triumph, not only for the individual animal but also for our organisation, as it enables us to free up space and resources for another animal in need.

3. Community Outreach and Education

Education is vital for breaking the cycle of stray animal overpopulation. Through our community outreach programmes, we educate local communities about responsible pet ownership, the importance of spaying and neutering, and how to care for animals humanely. We aim to foster a culture of compassion that values the welfare of all animals.

4. Spay/Neuter Initiatives

Spaying and neutering is one of the most effective ways to reduce stray populations. Our sterilisation initiatives help prevent future generations of stray animals from being born into hardship. By controlling the population, we reduce the number of animals suffering on the streets and lessen the strain on ROLDA and local shelters.

How You Can Help

On World Stray Animals Day, we invite you to take action and stand with ROLDA in our mission. Here are a few ways you can make a difference:
● Adopt, Don’t Shop: If you are considering adding a pet to your family, consider adoption options. Adopting from ROLDA or a local shelter gives a homeless animal a second chance.
● Sponsor an Animal: Our monthly sponsorship program allows you to provide ongoing support for an animal in need. Your sponsorship helps cover the costs of food, medical care, and shelter for one of our rescues.
● Spread Awareness: Share our message on social media, talk to friends and family, and encourage others to support stray animal welfare. Awareness leads to action, and your voice can inspire others to get involved.
● Donate: Every donation, big or small, makes a direct impact. With your help, we can continue rescuing, feeding, and rehoming animals in need.

A Hopeful Future for Strays

World Stray Animals Day reminds us of the work that remains, but it also gives us hope. With compassionate supporters like you, ROLDA can make a meaningful impact, one animal at a time. Together, we can envision a future where every stray animal is safe, cared for, and valued.

Let’s unite this World Stray Animals Day to reaffirm our commitment to these vulnerable animals. With your support, we can continue to be a beacon of hope for strays, offering them the love, care, and second chances they deserve.

As winter sets in, the cold months bring extra challenges for our pets and stray animals. At ROLDA UK, we know how vital it is to keep our furry friends safe, warm, and comfortable when temperatures drop. Whether you’re a pet owner or someone looking out for strays, these winter care tips will help you support cats and dogs during the season.

1. Create Warm Shelter

2. Avoid Over-Grooming and Bathing

3. Protect Paws from Cold and Salt

4. Keep Outdoor Cats Safe

5. Adjust Food and Water Intake

6. Ensure Visibility and Safety on Walks

7. Mind the Antifreeze and Toxic Chemicals

8. Offer Community Support for Strays

9. Stay Indoors During Severe Weather

10. Foster or Adopt if You’re Able

 

Final Thoughts

Winter is brutal on animals, especially those without homes. By following these tips, you can make the season more bearable—and even comfortable—for pets and strays. At ROLDA UK, we’re grateful for every individual who takes action to help animals during the colder months. Thank you for your kindness and compassion, and for making a difference in the lives of vulnerable animals.

Stay warm, stay safe, and don’t hesitate to reach out to us at ROLDA UK with any questions or for more ways to help!

This Valentine’s Day, let’s celebrate the purest form of love—unconditional, loyal, and life-changing. At ROLDA UK, every rescue is a story of second chances, resilience, and deep bonds that blossom between animals and their caregivers. Here are some heartwarming rescue stories that remind us how powerful love can be.

Bridge from Ukraine – A Survivor’s Journey to Healing: Bridge’s story begins amidst chaos. The city was under relentless shelling, leaving countless animals terrified and displaced. During this turmoil, rescuers found Bridge stranded alone on a small island, fighting for his life. When rescuers reached him, Bridge was in a heartbreaking state—dehydrated, exhausted, and suffering from severe neglect. ROLDA rushed Bridge to the clinic in critical condition, where he received life-saving IV treatment. A challenging surgery followed to repair an old, painful fracture, and for weeks afterwards, his leg required frequent dressing changes and constant care. Today, Bridge is stable and slowly regaining his strength. Each day, he grows a little stronger, beginning to trust again and gaining weight—a testament to his resilience and will to survive. Bridge’s journey is far from over, but with love and care, he has a real chance at a new life.

Your support can make all the difference for Bridge and countless others like him who desperately need help. Every act of kindness brings them closer to hope, healing, and a second chance at happiness.

Ruby from Romania: A Brave Journey Toward a Brighter Future: When rescuers found Ruby, she was despairingly thin, desperate to eat but unable to. Though friendly, her eyes betrayed the pain of severe health issues. She was found in a location where cats are regularly cared for, a heartbreaking clue that someone had likely abandoned her when she needed help the most.  A trip to the vet revealed the extent of Ruby’s suffering. At just 3-4 years old, she was battling severe generalised stomato-gingivitis—her entire mouth was an open, painful wound, likely caused by a calicivirus infection. Eating had become impossible, leaving her in agony. Thankfully, her FIV/FeLV tests came back negative, offering a glimmer of hope amidst her struggles.  With no significant issues detected in her blood tests, Ruby underwent surgery to ease her pain. The procedure went smoothly, and her recovery began with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory treatment.

Ruby started eating again within days, a small but mighty victory in her journey.  Today, Ruby is still recovering, but her progress is inspiring. She’s in foster care, where she’s safe and cared for, as returning her to the streets was never an option. Now, ROLDA’s focused on finding Ruby the loving family and forever home she truly deserves—a place where she can finally know comfort, happiness, and love.  Ruby’s story is one of resilience, and with your support, we can ensure her brighter future becomes a reality. Thank you for being a part of her journey to healing and hope.

Maya from Romania: A New Lease on Life, Thanks to You: Maya’s journey is one of resilience and love. She is one of twelve dogs under the care of Mrs. Cristina, a kind-hearted woman who rescues animals from the streets of Romania, each with their own difficult past. In February 2020, Maya was a healthy and happy dog. But two months later, a routine grooming session turned her world upside down. During a haircut, the groomer gave Maya gave her anesthesia to keep her still, but it had devastating consequences. Since that day, Maya has been unable to move independently. Despite the challenges, Mrs. Cristina never gave up on Maya. She devoted herself to Maya’s care, washing her daily, trimming her regularly to prevent harm, and even supporting her with a scarf to help her walk. But as Maya grew to 26kg, the strain became overwhelming. Mrs. Cristina prayed for a stroller to help Maya regain her mobility.

Thanks to incredible supporters like you, ROLDA was able to step in and answer Mrs. Cristina’s prayers. Your generosity made a custom stroller to accommodate Maya’s needs, and she is already learning how to move with it.  Maya and Mrs. Cristina are happier than ever, and their gratitude knows no bounds. Thank you for making this transformation possible.

Kitty from Ukraine: From Pain to Hopeful Purrs: When Kitty was found on the streets, he was just four months old and in a heartbreaking state—covered in blood and clearly in immense pain. No one knows how he was injured, but his suffering was undeniable.  Inessa, his rescuer, initially feared he had a broken paw. However, a thorough examination at the clinic revealed no fracture. Instead, Kitty’s paw was severely inflamed, badly damaged, and suffering from a pinched nerve that left him in distress.  Though Kitty didn’t require hospitalisation, he received daily care at the clinic. He began to heal with proper treatment, attentive dressings, and lots of love. Now, he’s feeling much better and is on the brink of a full recovery, ready to leave his pain behind and embrace a brighter future.  Kitty’s journey isn’t over yet. Your support can help cover his vet bills and ensure he finishes his recovery strong.

Together, we can give Kitty the second chance he deserves—a chance to grow up healthy, loved, and safe.

Sasha from Romania: A Mother’s Unyielding Love: Sasha’s story is a heartbreaking reminder of the plight faced by abandoned animals worldwide. At 9 years old, Sasha’s owners abandoned her and left to fend for herself and her three puppies. Despite her own struggles, Sasha’s maternal instincts never wavered—she worked tirelessly to care for her babies, even as she battled severe health issues. Sasha had a large tumour on her belly and a smaller one nearby, causing her significant discomfort. But her love for her puppies kept her going, refusing to leave their side or neglect their needs. When ROLDA learned of Sasha’s situation, we acted quickly. We brought Sasha and her little family to our shelter, where she immediately received the medical attention she desperately needed. Surgeons removed both tumours without complications, and now Sasha is on the road to recovery, surrounded by love, care, and hope for a brighter future.

Sasha’s resilience and devotion to her puppies have inspired us all. With your continued support, we can ensure Sasha and her little ones have the chance to thrive in a safe, loving home. Thank you for being part of their journey to healing and hope.

The Power of Love Unleashed

These are just a few of the countless stories that inspire us at ROLDA daily. Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romance; it’s about celebrating the powerful bonds we share with animals who need us most. Each rescue is a testament to resilience, a journey of healing, and a reminder of the transformative power of love.
If these stories inspire you, consider opening your heart and home to a rescue animal. Together, we can create more beautiful stories of love unleashed.

Help Us Spread the Love

This Valentine’s Day, there are so many ways you can help spread the love:

Every bit of kindness helps, and every act of love impacts the animals we love and care for. Thank you for helping us make Valentine’s Day a little sweeter for the animals who need it most. Together, let’s unleash the power of love!

Are you ready to open your heart and home to a new furry friend? Adopting a dog is a life-changing decision for you and the animal you bring home. Here at ROLDA, dozens of lovable dogs are waiting for a second chance. If you’re considering adoption, here are some powerful reasons why a ROLDA dog might just be the perfect match for you.

1. Save a Life and Make a Difference

When you adopt a dog from ROLDA, you’re giving an animal in need a second chance. Many of our dogs come from difficult backgrounds—rescued from abuse, neglect, or abandonment. By choosing to adopt from ROLDA, you become part of their journey to recovery and a brighter future. You’re not just getting a pet; you’re giving a deserving dog a life they never imagined possible.

2. Adopt a Dog with a Unique Personality

Every ROLDA dog has a story, and every story is unique. Our dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and temperaments, so your perfect match for your lifestyle is waiting for you at our shelter. Looking for a playful companion to join you on outdoor adventures? Or maybe a calm friend who loves a quiet night in? Our dedicated team will work with you to find a dog with a personality that fits seamlessly with your home.

3. Commitment to Health and Wellbeing

ROLDA is committed to the health and welfare of every dog in our care. All dogs undergo a thorough health screening, receive vaccinations, are sterilised, and are treated for medical issues before being listed for adoption. We believe in transparency, so you’ll have a complete picture of your dog’s health and any specific needs they may have. With our focus on quality care, you can feel confident that you’re adopting a dog that is ready to start their new life in good health.

4. Support and Guidance Along the Way

Adopting a dog is an exciting but sometimes challenging journey, especially if it’s your first time. ROLDA is here to support you throughout the process. Our team will help you prepare for your new family member, guiding everything from house training to behavioural support. We’re also available for questions and advice even after the adoption because we believe in a lifetime of support for our dogs and their new families.

5. Promoting Ethical and Responsible Pet Ownership

ROLDA is dedicated to responsible pet ownership. Our adoption process ensures that every dog goes to a home where they’ll be safe, loved, and well-cared for. By adopting from us, you’re joining a community of people who are committed to making a difference for dogs in need. You’re not only gaining a pet but also becoming part of a network of compassionate, animal-loving individuals who support one another.

6. Help Us Save More Lives

Every adoption opens up space and resources for us to rescue more dogs in need. Romania has one of the highest numbers of stray dogs in Europe, and every adoption is a step toward ending the cycle of suffering. By adopting from ROLDA, you directly contribute to our mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome as many dogs as possible.

7. Meet Your Next Best Friend – Virtually or In-Person

You don’t need to be in Romania to adopt a ROLDA dog. We’ve facilitated numerous successful adoptions to the UK and other countries. Thanks to virtual meet-and-greet options, you can get to know your future companion online and arrange a smooth transition to their new home. We handle all the details to ensure your dog arrives safely and comfortably.

Take the First Step Today

Adopting a dog from ROLDA is more than just adding a pet to your family—it’s a decision to make a lasting, meaningful impact on the life of a dog in need. Why not explore our adoption page, meet our amazing dogs, and take that first step toward finding a new best friend?

Whether you’re ready to adopt today or want to learn more, we’re here to help. Every dog deserves a loving home, and maybe that home could be yours.