The Lucy Irvine Foundation Europe, LIFE, is a non-profit organisation actively reducing the suffering of dogs, cats and horses in Bulgaria through daily Outreach Work, rescue and education. I visited Bulgaria for a few weeks in March with the aim of reaching out to the animals there. Using preventative treatments, de parasitising, treating nasty wounds and assisting with veterinary care for the many suffering animals who desperately need help. Lots of dog walks were also in order! :D

A link to the website is here: Lucy Irvine Foundation

In August this year me and Juliet will be running a full marathon for this charity. A multi terrain coastal route which might just kill us but worth it if we can raise a few pennies for this wonderful cause.

On our rounds of local villages we encountered many cases of neglect, strays in poor condition, potentially trying to feed a litter of puppies at the same time and rough handling of horses. The horses often benefit when owners are taught how to be patient with the horse and some vital techniques when riding. Some of these horses end up leaving with Lucy Irvine herself at the wonderful sanctuary.

Intervention and support are key tools in LIFE’s multiple strategies to improve conditions in which animals are kept. Where possible, sponsors are found to fund food, anti parasitic treatments and shelter for animals in need. Sponsorship is popular with owners and allows LIFE more access to individual homes in Bulgarian villages and Roma ghettos than would otherwise be the case. When a member of LIFE’s team visits to deliver dog food, or salve for a horse’s harness sores, conditions of care can be checked, and problems addressed as needed.

Education about the needs of animals happens spontaneously at every encounter with owners and their animals, be it on the road when Lucy is out in her own horse and cart, or when a home visit is made. LIFE also works with local schools in which presentations about animal care – and laws relating to treatment of animals – are made, with the approval of local police and the mayors of villages concerned. One of LIFE’s key missions is to expand this aspect of its work. Spay/neuter campaigns for dogs and cats are pursued year round. Vaccination campaigns are also vital to LIFE’s drive to prevent suffering.