The Plight of Street Animals in Romania and the Beacon of Hope: Sava's Safe Haven
Romania, a country with a rich history and diverse landscapes, is also home to a significant population of street animals. This issue has been a longstanding challenge, with estimates suggesting that hundreds of thousands of dogs and cats live on the streets. The root of the problem can be traced back to the era of systematization under communist rule, where citizens were forced to abandon their pets due to housing policies.
The situation escalated over the years, leading to various measures being taken by the government, including controversial euthanasia laws.
Despite these efforts, the number of street animals remains high, and the need for compassionate and sustainable solutions is evident.
+ 5000
Helped Animals
+1500
Rehomed Animals
+50
Community Projects
Our Mission
Established in 2012 by Oana and her family, this non-profit, non-governmental animal welfare organization has been dedicated to caring for stray and community animals in Galați, Romania. Despite having limited resources and volunteers, Sava's Safe Haven has successfully rescued, rehabilitated, and rehomed thousands of animals, giving them a new lease on life.
The shelter not only provides a safe space for these animals but also engages in crucial activities such as spaying, microchipping, and vaccinating to control the population and prevent future generations of animals from suffering the same fate.
The Sava family, has managed to create an environment where each animal is given a second chance at life. The shelter boasts facilities that cater to the needs of its residents, including play areas, quarantine zones, grooming spaces, and a veterinary clinic.
Our programs
Sava's Safe Haven offers a variety of programs designed to support animals in need. Our initiatives range from rescue and rehabilitation to providing free medical services for community animals. We also prioritize educational programs to foster awareness and responsible pet ownership. Together, we can make a positive impact on lives of these animals and our community!
Rescue and rehabilitation
At Sava's Safe Haven, our shelter has the capacity to care for 250 animals, providing them with a safe and welcoming space. Thanks to our dedicated partners, we have successfully rehomed over 1,500 animals into loving homes across Europe. Our team is committed to ensuring that each animal receives the care and attention they need while they await forever families. Together, we are making a positive impact on the lives of these and the communities we serve.
Veterinary Care
Since 2015, we have proudly operated a tiny clinic within our shelter, providing essential veterinary services not only to the animals in care but also to those in the community. Each year, we offer free veterinary care to up to 500 animals from rural areas, ensuring they receive the medical attention they need. Our well-equipped clinic and dedicated veterinary team are always ready to respond to any situation, making a positive impact on the lives of countless.
Educational Programs
In collaboration with local police, we have visited several schools in the Galati to launch an educational program focused on animal welfare and rights. Our initiative aims to raise awareness about the importance of preventing animal abandonment. By bringing dogs from the shelter to the schools, we not only promote these wonderful animals but also engage students in informative lectures about responsible pet ownership and compassion towards all living beings.
Disaster Response
At Sava's Safe Haven, we are committed rapid disaster response, addressing crises like the ongoing Ukraine war and local floods that have affected countless families and their cherished animals. Our dedicated volunteers are consistently on-site, collaborating with authorities and local and international partners to deliver vital assistance to those in need. Together, we aim to make a meaningful impact in the lives of the vulnerable during their toughest moments.