Hello everyone,
I’m taking my chance on this site because I believe that in life, dreaming big is allowed! My dream: to create an animal shelter on my island in Martinique! Here, the animal protection society (SPA) is so overwhelmed that they’ve actually closed their doors. When they receive a dog, it’s usually to euthanize it. All the associations are also completely overwhelmed, packs of dogs are forming, and it’s becoming a real problem. The authorities are doing absolutely nothing about it. I am passionate about addressing this issue. I feel I have the strength and the capacity, as does my partner, who is a dog trainer.
I would also like to create a space for a dog boarding facility (highly in demand here), which would allow me to create a profitable activity alongside the shelter. This would include dog grooming and a dog playground. I am currently finishing the training that will allow me to be compliant and open the shelter. I am fortunate to have my mother supporting me in this project, and she wants to donate a magnificent, very large plot of land of over one hectare, isolated more than 100 meters from the nearest residences, near a river – perfect for the project!
My only obstacle to this project is financial means. Firstly, to pay the notary for the donation of the land to ensure all rights to the property (I have a brother and a sister, and I want to avoid any inheritance issues, especially since they don’t like dogs!). This would cost around 2000 euros. Then, there’s the cost of installing a prefabricated container to make it a living space for my family (I’ve already found one pre-fitted second-hand), which is around 5000 euros. The transport of the container would be around 500 euros. Some light landscaping, a day of tractor work at 300 euros, and if possible, a slab to place the container, costing about 1500 euros. From there, any means would be welcome to create spaces for the animals and to cover veterinary expenses. A sturdy shelter for two dogs costs around 1000 euros. The location is large enough and far enough from residences to accommodate all the dogs in need on the island.
The investments I’ve already made with my limited means include 350 euros for training and 700 euros for fencing to accommodate a pony we already have boarded, which can also be used for the dogs.
For me, implementing this project would truly be an achievement, a triumph over life, especially since my loved ones don’t believe in me. Yet, I believe, I dream big, everything is already in my head; it’s possible, and it’s up to you. I would be eternally grateful to you, as would all the distressed animals in Martinique. For them and for the new life you can offer my family: Thank you!
Paypal.me/thecaribbeanshelter