Yes Lori, I couldn't agree more, this is very exciting and still a long way off. I imagine it will get even more so, as the date draws nearer!

I too would like to thank everyone for their attention to our causes. Also, just to let you know what it's like for the domestic animals in this country (The United Arab Emirates) just last week a friend of mine found a blind kitten, suffering from a common eye disease, who also had a broken leg. In the end this leg had to be amputated, but this is truly the most loving creature God has ever put on this earth. These animals need our support as this country is still developing and many people are suffering and being neglected, so you know the animals are definitely at the bottom of the list of priorities. I know so many kind and generous people who spend the majority of their free time going back and forth to the vet, to get literally hundreds of these animals spayed and neutered, and then place them back on the street, because most of them are feral, or nearly feral. Those who would make fine pets are certainly available for adoption, but the numbers of cats and dogs far outnumber the available homes.

There is absolutely no excuse for it, as you no doubt know, this is one of the richest countries in the world. The problem lies in the fact that culturally, they believe animals are not really worthy of help. This is most unfortunate, because animals make significant contributions to the lives of humans, and simultaneously rely on us to provide a proper life for them. These are not wild animals, but domestic, and their lives are so needlessly difficult. It is a completely different paradigm than that of western countries, and it is truly heartbreaking.

Many of us feed the 'bin cats', the cats that hang out around the dumpsters just to try to find something to eat. It is really disgressing to see, and Al Ain Animal Friends is literally bursting at the seams with strays, as is Feline Friends in Dubai and also in the capitol city of Abu Dhabi.

We are working on a new website and hope to have it set up soon, so anyone can make a donation to my cause, however small. Every little bit helps end the unnecessary suffering these precious creatures are experiencing. Thanks everyone again for your support and please keep checking in on our blog from time to time as the date draws nearer.
Nancy F.