As you can see in the current annual report, SUST has once again achieved a great deal this year: numerous animal shelters in Switzerland have benefited from SUST's work. A whole team of volunteers travels for one day on these assignments. The helpers are already highly motivated in the morning. Neither cold, wind, rain nor the glowing sun reduces the motivation of the helpers. Depending on the situation, a turtle enclosure is erected outside, trees are cut, fences are repaired or newly erected, animal enclosures are renovated or enlarged. Consultation discussions are held with the animal shelter managers. Often there is also a veterinarian, who takes care of possible veterinary concerns. The volunteers are not only animal friends who are very hands-on, but also the theoretical training is essential. The helpers are trained and prepared for the various assignments in regular training courses.
The collection of materials was also a great success this year. The SUST collects all year round animal utensils that are no longer needed. In autumn, the collection campaign is supported by a large specialist pet shop, which collects used or new animal articles together with SUST in its shops, which animal lovers no longer need. This year, the campaign brought together an incredible 30 tons of material. The large warehouses of the SUST were filled with articles that could be distributed to animal shelters and animal rescue centres in Switzerland and abroad.
As in previous years, SUST supported the neutering of stray or abandoned cats in Switzerland and the castration of street dogs and cats abroad in 2014.
At the Dogs military in Rifferswil - a great fun course for dogs and their owners - a lot of money was collected for animal protection projects.
In Romania, the construction of an animal shelter was financed. The planning was adapted to the needs and conditions on site: now the animal rooms can be heated in the freezing cold winter season, suitable rooms are available for medical care and animal feed can now be stored dry. All this was not possible in the previous rooms of the animal shelter, which not only made the work of the animal protectionists more difficult, but also worsened the well-being of the animals.
Not to forget the many missions abroad: during at least one week, experienced SUST helpers support animal shelters abroad. The team's veterinarians take care of the treatment and neutering of the animals. But also the renovation of the facilities, advising the caregivers or discussions with the local authorities are supposed to support the animal protectionists in their difficult work. And a lot more has been achieved: direct help, laying hens action, campaigns, media appearances,... all with the goal of animal welfare work that is sustainable.
Without your help, dear patrons, SUST would not have been able to implement all the projects this year. I would like to thank you not only as a member of the Foundation Board for your support, but also on behalf of the animals. Thank you very much!