~Melissa Palomo
If you’ve ever traveled internationally, you’ve probably seen them. The dogs that sleep on the side of the road, searching through the trash or hunting for scraps, looking for their next meal. Puppies wandering after their mother, a mangy dog deftly dodging traffic. Street mutts are everywhere, and tug at our heartstrings. But what can we do to help?
The Street Mutts team believes that the treatment of animals worldwide is a reflection of community, culture, and education, and can be influenced by a number of factors, including political environment, socioeconomic status of population, religious beliefs, among others. Our organization seeks to provide glimpses into different cultures and communities by way of their animals, and to help bring awareness to the plight of a street dog.
Street Mutts is governed by three ideals: Educate, Inspire, and Empower.
Educate: Street Mutts believes that education is key. We work with local organizations worldwide to develop educational programming tailored to the needs and challenges of the local community and culture. Children will learn what it means to be kind to animals, and communities will understand how humane management methods benefit both the animal and human populations.
Inspire: Street Mutts inspires individuals around the globe through compelling imagery that raises awareness of the issues that street animals and communities face on a daily basis. We believe that the awareness raised through photos and social media campaigns will allow individuals to connect with and support local organizations in their efforts to improve the lives of street animals.
Empower: While Street Mutts will develop educational programming, we recognize that our efforts will not be successful in the long term without the support from organizations that are working hands-on in local communities each day. We will give these organizations the tools, training, and resources they need to implement and maintain successful educational programs.
Can YOU make a difference in the lives of street dogs (and cats) worldwide? Visit StreetMutts.com to donate today, or follow them on facebook, instagram, and twitter to find out about their work and future volunteering opportunities.
For an easy way to help, any orders from IfsAndsButtons that mention Kid World Citizen, $5 will be donated to Street Mutts. Check out their upcycled travel jewelry:
What do you think? I love to hear from my readers:).