December 31, 2021

For sale ... this beautiful calendar or diary with photos of our four-legged friends...

Friday 31 december 2021

Another new year ... another chance to buy the wonderful, annual Ace-Shin Calendar and the Ace-Shin Diary. The 2022 editions are as beautiful as ever, featuring photos of our beloved four legged friends.

Since my computer decided to update itself, automatically, some months ago, I sometimes am unable to upload photos and videos. There is no rhyme or reason to this. It seems to be completely random. However, to see images of the calendar and diary, just click on News and Stories at the top, and then on the Dutch blog on the drop down menu.

So sorry about this. I will see what can be done about it soon.

Price (excl. postage):

Calendar: 12,50€

Diary: 15€

You can order by sending an email to myriammerckx@msn.com (for Belgium)

or to ace.manong@gmail.com ( for the Netherlands)

Full of heart-warming photos, a high quality finish, enough space to note all your appointments and fun new extras. 

Calendar - A4 size - 15 pages - Thick quality paper, wire-o binding and hanging hook - Room to note appointments and birthdays

Diary - A5 size - 150 pages - Quality paper, laminated cover and wire-o binding - Packed with extras, such as to do lists, space for notes about your pet, tips on dog and cat behaviour and beautiful illustrations.


Fabienne's Diary : The last day of the year and the beginning of 2022 ...


.... people and animals around us, beautiful friendships and memories that are suddenly no longer there. 

Too many things happened to mention, but we start each day never knowing what the next one will bring,... Each scenario, no matter how black or heavy, we always have to turn it around so we can make the best of it. 

The flooding in January was hard to digest, the enormous damage, but especially the many lives lost. The umpteenth Covid wave that came crashing down on our Refugio.  At one point we, like the rest of the world, could do nothing. The fear of not being able to pay the bills, and all the ups and downs around keeping our shelter running ... An immense number of four-legged friends were thrown into our laps, where could we go with them?

In March we had the flooding in Algeciras. The numerous rescues in death stations. We are constantly full to bursting and people keep dumping. Death stations have never been so full before.

But there were also beautiful moments, which we should cherish. For example, when a seriously ill or injured dog began to enjoy that new life, their first bite.  Or one of them is finally allowed to go home and we receive a picture of the salon hero on the sofa. This year also saw the sterilisation of about a thousand kittens, colony cats.

In short, it was an eventful year,.... With many checks on us, with positive results and now we have to wait for the new laws that are coming, and work out how we will deal with this.

On behalf of us all, a big thank you to all our volunteers, sympathisers and employees, sponsors, and everyone who contributed! 

Strong together and head on everyone, hop to 2022, a lucky year! Let us take this as our starting point and face what is to come with all our might and enthusiasm! Let us hold on to it and hope that everything will be better! 

FELIZ 2022!

Fabienne and Dirk

ACE SHIN Team 

And most of all... ALL FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS!

Here's a video of 2021 ...

https://we.tl/t-8mINM75rUV






https://we.tl/t-8mINM75rUV

December 28, 2021

A Christmas surprise! At the door! Good morning!!!

Tuesday 28 December 2021


Following on from the last post. The cruelty is never ending. The dumping is never ending. Perhaps it's no surprise in a country where the authorities turn a blind eye at best and buy into the cruelty at worst. These little souls were the lucky ones. Whoever dumped them at our door had at least a modicum of humanity in not throwing them in the garbage or into a killing station. They knew, presumably, that leaving them at our door would give these poor little beggars a chance of a happy life. But so frustrating and sad that that train of thought, of humanity, didn't lead to them actually going to the very minimal trouble of castrating or sterilising their dog or dogs. Especially since they could get it done at the Refugio for free. We continue to rescue, we continue to educate, we continue to offer all the help we can to help people to look after their animals. But it's a long weary road ... I hope and hope and hope that the message is getting through to the next generation, if not to their parents. 

I do need to add of course that there are so many kind, good hearted, generous people in this country who have the same care for the welfare of their pets and for animals. Just not enough, not yet.

This is Andalucia again...Sevilla Villafranco...

Tuesday 28th December 2021

It never changes...this is Andalucia once again...in Seville Villafranco.

Bewilderment? Disbelief? `Nevertheless, this is the reality!

The images below were shot from March 2021 to today, Monday 27 December 2021, at 2pm, at the previously described farm owned by the Los Palacios y Villafranca City Council. This is really shocking. But it never really stops. Perhaps the most frustrating and infuriating aspect of it, apart from the cruelty, the suffering, is the fact that the authorities allow it to continue. Putting obstacles in the way of anyone who tries to help.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/CX_zuAJhd4y/?utm_medium=share_sheet

The post beside the video, in translation.

From :  dog_soul_

Extreme situation⚠️️ .πŸ“Camino de la corchuela finca El Palmar,Los Palacios y Villafranca (Sevilla)πŸ“

Coordinates: 37.177978,-5.945879

The images shown below have been recorded since March 2021 until today, Monday 27 December 2021, at 14:00, in the above-described farm owned by the City Council of Los Palacios y Villafranca.

@ayto_lospalacios_y_vfca Since March of this year, this situation has been reported to the @ayto_lospalacios_y_vfca, the local police and the Seprona (the official animal police).



'Action Bracelets' from Maxi Zoo in Belgium

Tuesday 28 December 2021


We are one of the 3 good, year-end targets of the bracelet-action of Maxi Zoo in Belgium. For every 2,5€ bracelet sold, Maxi Zoo donates 1,5€. So don't forget our little darlings when you shop for your four-legged friend! 

Order your bracelets here maxizoo.be. 

December 24, 2021

Update: Jubilee Fundraising

 Friday 24 December 2021


During the ACE | SHIN anniversary on 11 December, we started a large collection for the purchase of a new sterilisation device. In the meantime, the counter has reached EUR 7,745.00! How happy we are with this! 

We are still saving up, but the device is within reach!

We would love to thank everyone personally for their donation, but due to the large numbers it is not possible. 

On behalf of Fabienne, all our employees and volunteers, and our four-legged friends ... THANKS! πŸ™

https://ace-charity.org/ace-shin-jubileum-2021/ 



XMAS is coming ... Day 24 - Last day of the Advent calendars!

 Friday 24th December 2021



For a whole month, 24 dogs and 24 kittens were able to introduce themselves, hoping to be found by their new owners. Today it's the last day already ... 

Advent Calendar Dogs: https://www.ace-charity.org/en/advent-calendar-dogs-2021/

Advent Calendar Cats: https://www.ace-charity.org/en/advent-calendar-cats-2021/

The Advent calendars will remain available for the rest of the month. If you missed them, you can see who our Advent sweethearts were in the gallery, and still click through to their profile.

Happy X-MAS! Hoping they all celebrate next Christmas in their golden basket πŸ™πŸŽ„


Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)

December 23, 2021

Our Jobo ... it's time! Surely it's his time!

 Thursday 23rd December 2021


He's been with us for seven of his nine years on earth. Sweet Jobo, discarded by his owners as if he was a bit of trash. Dumped in one of the most evil killing stations. A gentle, two year old - who didn't deserve that. Don't let him grow old in care! No matter how loving a foster home is, it isn't a forever home. Who will love this dear soul and make him happier than he's ever been. 

For more details about dear Jobo and to learn more of his story, please click on his name. 


For all the rescues and rescuers ...

Thursday 23rd December 2021


 

December 20, 2021

From Fabienne's diary : A nice ending to our eventful week...

 Monday December 20th, 2021

On Saturday we had our annual Christmas party at Restaurant Los Olivos in Calahonda,... After the many tensions of the last weeks and months, this was a real treat, a really nice evening with a positive atmosphere! And with a great result for our refugio: we collected almost 3000 euros! 

Many thanks to everyone who contributed! It was a heartwarming Christmas, especially because some of our four-legged friends were allowed to go home!

All's well that ends well!






 Monday 20 December 2021

The sale of the Christmas earrings brought in 160€ for our four-legged friends!

Thank you so much Sophie, for this wonderful result! And thank you to the buyers for your support!


Would you like to do something for our dogs? If so, please send an e-mail to pr.belgie@ace-charity.org.

Our brownies sale was a success again - and what a fantastic result!

 Monday 20 December 2021

Thanks to a number of fantastic volunteers who put their shoulders to the wheel and of course thanks to the massive purchases. 900 boxes were sold, with a yield of € 3,635 for our sweethearts in Spain! We are so happy with that!



December 19, 2021

How is it possible ....


 This is Pax. He's nine years old and he's been looking for a forever home .... for nine years, which must seem like forever to him! How is this possible. According to his details he is in foster in Belgium, so at least he hasn't been in a cage all that time. And he will be loved and looked after by his foster family. But it's not the same. Look at that face, how could anyone resist that face!

For more details about lovely, patient Pax, please click on his name.


All I want for Christmas is ... a fleece

Sunday 19th December, 2021

OPERATION - FLEECE! 


We Ann & Myriam have been in the ACE|SHIN shelter for a few days and noticed that the fleece blankets for the dogs and kittens are almost empty. The nights are cold in the shelter and the weather is bad. So by Christmas we would like to provide them with a whole stock of warm fleece blankets from Ikea! For 3 euros you can give a dog a warm night. You can sponsor a blanket or make a free donation to BE979214471449 with announcement fleece. You can also donate via this link (Ideal/Bancontact): https://ace-charity.org/fleece-actie/ Thanks! 

Have you been opening our Advent Calendar - it's full of love and longing.

Sunday 19th December ...



For some reason I can't upload the image of our Advent Calendars ... but if you click here for our dogs and here for our cats, you can see who was behind the doors, and you can also open today's special hidden darlings. All have so much love to give and each one is longing for a family of their own.

Today our doggie is Pee No. 17169

And our sweet cat is Tesla No. 19280

Open the calendar now, and below it you'll see who was behind all the open doors to date.













 

Our Online Jubilee celebration was a great success ... now we'd love to have your feedback!

 Thursday 16 December 2021

Hello all 

πŸ–πŸΌ Last Saturday, December 11 was a great success! We are extremely grateful that you were there and were part of the Online ACE Jubilee.

As you already know, it was the first time that the ACE/SHIN Foundation organised an online event. In order to make next year's event even more fun for you, we need your feedback! You would help us a lot by filling in the survey below about the Online ACE Jubilee. It's just a few questions, so it will only take 3 minutes of your time. 🐢

We look forward to hearing about your experiences!

You can find the survey hereπŸ‘‡πŸΌ

https://forms.gle/obDBiqX8f8aVnAm67


Our Jubilee Fundraiser is still active ... we're halfway there, now for a final big effort!

 Sunday 19th December, 2021


For the ACE anniversary we started a big fundraising to save for a Ligasure sterilisation machine. This would really make a big difference to our vets and the more than 1,000 dogs and cats we sterilise each year!

Many people have already participated and contributed what they could. Thank you so much!

The intermediate amount is now: EUR 4.035,00 (in reality a little higher because some people have done a manual transfer). This means we are halfway there!

Will you help us collect the other half? 

Please would you share our fundraising action as much as possible, or start your own (Facebook) fundraising campaign? Together we are strong!

Link to the fundraising: https://ace-charity.org/grote-fundraising-ace-jubileum/ 

Thank you on behalf of the whole ACE | SHIN Team 



December 10, 2021

Tomorrow is the day ... when the Dutch team organises the Online ACE Jubilee!

Friday 10 december 2021

All info & links (from 11-12-2021): https://ace-charity.org/ace-shin-jubileum-2021

The day will kick off early with a cool photo competition. The winning quadruped (the1 dog and the 1 cat with the most votes) will adorn the front page of the official ACE|SHIN Charity webpage for one year! Do you believe your dog or cat is the most beautiful dog or cat in the country? From 11 December you can prove it by uploading your photo via the website.

Direct link Photo competition (from 11-12-2021): https://ace-charity.org/cover-model-2022

Furthermore, a wonderful fundraising project is waiting for you.

Collection goal: Ligasure sterilisation device Γ  EUR 9,500.00

Direct link Fundraising (from 11-12-2021): https://ace-charity.org/grote-fundraising-ace-jubileum

Are you very keen to know how the Foundation is doing, or do you perhaps have an urgent question you want answered?

Fabienne will share her story on Teams at 11am and will take all the time needed to answer your questions.

Are you curious to know how the ACE cats, among others, are doing? Then listen to Vivian's story at 14:00. She will also have plenty of time to answer questions.

Do you want to know how to make your rescue dog happy and relaxed? Doglistener Hilde Brandsema will share some tips at 16:00.

We are looking forward to meeting you!




December 08, 2021

You'll find a wealth of love and loyalty behind the doors in our Advent Calendar

Wednesday 8th December



We're at day 8 now, but due to unavoidable teething troubles, it took some time for the English version to go live. It's live now, so there are several happy, sweet, loving dogs and cats just waiting for you to open their door so they can meet you. Who knows, one of them might be 'the one'.

The dogs waiting and eager to meet you already are Donatello, Lio, Rodie, Maneke, Brenda and Jama.

The sweet cats who are longing to meet you are Ale, Youri, Bartje, Blank, Nora and Kitty.

To go to the English version of the calendar look at the top of the website - https://www.ace-charity.org/en/#
find 'AdventCalendar' and in the drop down menu you'll see the Advent Calendars for the dogs and the cats. -






 

🎈WE ARE COUNTING DOWN THE DAYS🎈

 Wednesday 8th December, 2021



In 3 days time...it's the Online ACE Jubilee! The day will kick off early with a cool photo contest. The winning four-legged friends (the 1 dog and 1 cat with the most votes) will grace the front page of the official webpage of ACE|SHIN Charity for a year! Do you believe your dog  or your cat is the most beautiful dog or cat in the country? From 11 December you can prove this by uploading your photo via the website. 

Furthermore, a wonderful fundraising project is waiting for you. Keep an eye on the webpage for the latest news about this! Are you curious as to how the Foundation is doing, or do you have an urgent question that you'd like answered? Fabienne will share her story on Teams at 10:30 am and will take all the time to answer your questions. 

 

Would you like to know about how things are going with the ACE cats? If so then listen to Vivian's story at 2:00 PM. Would you like to know how to make your rescue dog happy and relaxed? Doglistener Hilde Brandsema will share several tips at 4 p.m. 

 

We look forward to seeing you all on December 11. Will you be there? πŸŽ‰


Team ACE / SHIN

 


'



Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)

Yesterday was National Volunteer Day in the Netherlands.


Wednesday 8th December 2021

In the name of all our beloved four-legged friends, we would like to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to those who are selflessly there for them every day! Who give their free time, their commitment to an animal in need! Without you, we would never be able to achieve what they are entitled to: a dignified life! 

Thank you so much




December 05, 2021

Our wonderful sponsors and donors, as well as our magnificent volunteers are making sure Santa calls at the Refugio

Sunday 5th December, 2021

We are so grateful to our sponsors and donors, and to our great volunteers who help co-ordinate and publicise the donations. Among them Maxi Zoo, who are holding a big Santa Claus event for our dogs and cats. Until Christmas Eve they will be collecting food, toys and cat cages for us. Be sure to drop by their shop to support this action. In all other Maxi zoo shops you can also buy bracelets at the cash register to help our little ones in the Refugio through the winter. 

And thank you too to Wico Autolakken bv & Renske animal food, who have given us a large food donation. Volunteer Dave Eijkenboom started a collection for our cats and dogs, and with great success! About 450 kg of kibble, sausages, pate and snacks from Renske animal food are now ready for transport to Spain! This is simply WONDERFUL news, and helps not only our .

Volunteer Dave Eijkenboom started a collection for our dogs and cats, and with success! About 450 kg of kibble, sausages, pate and snacks from Renske animal food are now ready for transport to Spain! This is simply WONDERFUL news, and helps not only our four-legged friends. When you are confronted with animal suffering on a daily basis, this kind of relief action gives a boost to your heart!

It started with a survey among Dave's family and friends whether they would like to sponsor a bag of feed for Christmas. After agreeing on a price with his pet shop, the donations started coming in. Dave then approached the daughter of his boss, who found one of their suppliers willing to help out. Wico Autolak bv (Autoschade groep Limburg) then delivered a huge batch of dog and cat food to his work. Wico, in turn, had made a deal with Renske petfood in Cuijk. Food that can still be kept for a year or so, but is nearing its sell-by date, has now been donated to ACE.

And one of our volunteers, Edith, was able to collect a wonderful donation at De Schuur at Kootwijkerbroek.

What a beautiful chain of help from all these kind, generous people and companies and the many others who donate to us and who are not mentioned here. We are so grateful for their help! 

On behalf of our four legged friends, a BIG THANK YOU to Maxi Zoo and all the kind people who put presents and donations under the tree for our dogs, and to all those who buy the bracelets. And heartfelt thanks too to Dave, Renske and Wico for their magnificent efforts and donation. And to you all who keep us going thanks to your efforts and generosity.


Presents under the tree from Maxi Zoo and their customers.



Part of the wonderful donation from Dave, Renske and Wico 



Gifts for our dogs and cats from De Schuur at Kootwijkerbroek, collected by volunteer Edith.


December 02, 2021

XMAS is coming ... for them too!

 Thursday 2 December 2021


Can one of them celebrate next Christmas with you?

Check out whose "box" is open today, and visit his/her full profile via the link below 


For 24 days, one "box" will open every day, and one of our dogs or cats will introduce himself.

Curious to see who is our Advent dog or cat today? Then take a look at:

Advent Calendar Dogs:  English Version *

Advent calendar Cats: 

We hope to find the perfect match for these sweethearts. But sharing them en masse is also great! The more people see them, the better their chances.

With whom can he/she celebrate this Christmas? 

* Please bear with us. Some of the dogs and cats details are still in Dutch. We are trying to sort this out. In the meantime, if you go to Dogs (or Cats) for Adoption and put in the name in the box, you'll be able to access all the details. Thanks for your patience.


November 30, 2021

πŸŽ‰ ACE Online Jubilee πŸŽ‰ GET TO KNOW VIVIAN πŸ–πŸΌ

 Sunday 28 November 2021

Tuesday 30th November 2021


Vivian with her beloved Harry, one of her many animal children.

In a few months Vivian will have been an ACE volunteer for 10 years! In those ten years she has had all kinds of tasks, and for the last four years she's been the person in charge of ACE Netherlands. She is 47 years old and was born and raised in Brabant, but has been living in Spain for 3 years now. Her heart has been set on animals since childhood and from 23 years ago when her first rescue dog, Coco Loco, came into her life, rescue dogs and cats have become her mission and passion. Therefore ACE completely fits in with her personal mission. Thanks to this wonderful foundation, she can help dogs and cats in need. 

During the Online ACE Jubilee, Vivian will tell you more about volunteering at ACE, the new rules & legislation regarding adoptions from abroad and the growing cat department! Are you curious about Vivian's story? Then make sure you save 11 December 2021 in your diary! 🎈

Keep an eye on our blog, social media and website from 1 December for the latest information, times and link to the online sessions! 😊




November 26, 2021

Black Friday Special Bonus ... It's 'Adopt a Black Dog or Cat Day' ❤️😊❤️

 Friday 26th November, 2021

photo source: petdox.com

Black Friday ... the day (or nowadays the week) of bargains. Or so called bargains, because things are not always what they seem.

But when it comes to dogs and cats ... things are always what they seem. No need for special discounts and bonuses. A black animal is, like any other animal, a bonus in itself.

Don't be put off by the myths. The association of black cats with witchcraft dates back centuries to times of religious extremism and misogyny (though one could say times haven't changed that much!). The association with depression, the widely misnamed 'black dog' doesn't help the reputation of our dear black fellows either. Film and TV often portray black dogs in a bad light, adding to the false belief, held by some, that they are more aggressive. And of course the bigger the dog, the greater the misplaced fear. 

Quite apart from historic misconceptions and myths, some practical obstacles make the rehoming of black animals that bit harder. Black animals don't photograph well, so it's harder for a shelter to have them stand out given the cost of professional photography. Because the are more difficult to re-home, because of the misinformation, very sadly black animals are the often first to be euthanised.

But look at the facts. Black dogs and cats are absolutely no different from white, brown, brindle, grey or tan coloured dogs and cats. They are just as loyal, just as loving and just as deserving of love. And there are some great advantages too. Black dogs are stylish, black goes with everything, so whatever the decor, wherever you take them, they will stand out beautifully. Black dogs and cats look cleaner for longer. Both black dogs and black cats can wear any type of collar with grace, and glittery collars look amazing on them. Finally, have you ever tried to find a white or light coloured dog or cat in the snow? 

Seriously though, these delightful animals have often been waiting in a shelter for longer than their coloured friends. They have seen them leave their cages, tails wagging or whiskers twitching as they take the first steps to their new families. So please, when considering adoption remember our black friends because ..

BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL

and cuddly and loyal and loving and faithful and deserving of your love.


Our Wendi*

This is Wendi, she's four now and has been with us since she was rescued as a tiny puppy. She so deserves a chance of happiness. Find out more about our sweet shy Wendi, by clicking on her name. The information on her page may have been written a while ago, so for more up to date news please use the contact information on her page and quote her name and reference number.

*Our Wendi is black though she looks brown in the photo, an example of how difficult it is to photograph black animals to show them off at their best!



Say hello to Quinn

Quinn is one of our littlest black dogs - apart from being black, his breed is sadly one that people just don't understand. He's a beautiful cross American Stafford. Staffies are among the sweetest most affectionate dogs on the planet, but have an unfortunate reputation. Quinn needs an owner who understand the breed and will give him the upbringing he needs - at 4 months he's just a puppy so it's the perfect time for this to begin. For further information about Quinn, please click on his name.


Meet Stanley

Stanley is ten months old and he's been with us since he was a tiny kitten, in fact all of his short little life.
Stanley is a European shorthair, a very sweet boy who wants nothing more than his own forever home. Who will give this handsome fellow the love he deserves? For more information about our Stanley, please click on his name. 


This is Kitty

Kitty is three and a bit years old and has been with us for eight months now. Just look at those eyes and those soft paws. As you can see from her pose, she's really eager to meet you. Don't let her get any older while she waits for her very own loving home. Our cats are well fed, warm, get cuddles and have lots of toys to play with. But there's nothing like your own family to make you feel warm and wanted. For more information about dear Kitty, please click on her name.  


We have more than 30 black, or' mostly black' dogs in the shelter, and 40 cats and kittens. Many of them sadly have been with us a while. Please take a look - I can't cover them all in this post but watch this space. I will be continuing to present these pretty and handsome creatures shortly.

 

November 24, 2021

Why? Why Jobo? Why so long?

Wednesday 24th November, 2021

Why on  earth is it that some dogs just seem to get overlooked? 

I've written before about our long stayers, those good dogs who for some reason just don't get picked. Even so I was rather shocked when I read Jobo's details. In fact I had to read the dates several times. Most of our long stayers have been with us for perhaps, two, three or even four years. But seven? Seven long years waiting for a forever home?

Jobo was a young dog when he came to us from one of the nastiest killing stations. A timid, beautiful Podenco cross, abandoned in that horrible place by an owner who didn't deserve to own a dog. Of course, like most of our dogs, Jobo has his backpack - the emotional burden of his past bad experiences at the hands of humans. Jobo gets on well with other dogs and one of our students spent a lot of time with him, showing him how kind and unthreatening humans can be. It helped him a lot, but what he really needs now is an owner who will give him the gentle, reassuring love and attention he needs and wants but is still maybe a little reluctant to trust. 

It's so sad to see the photos of sweet Jobo when he first came to us as a two year old , and to see his white muzzle now that he is nine. Nine is not old, not at all. But seven years is a long long time. Fortunately Jobo is currently living in a loving foster home, but what he really needs now is is very own family. Who will invest some time, patience and love in this dog who needs it so much and has so much to give?

For more information about our Jobo, please click on his name.


Jobo at the beginning

Jobo now








November 21, 2021

A little reminder ... temporary arrangements


Although the Ace Doggie Blog and the image of a dog and cat appears on the main page of the new website, this is in not yet linked up. But the Ace Doggie Blog (formerly The English Blog) can be accessed in the drop-down menu  News and Stories at the top of the website. 

 

Petition: Spanish senator asks government to act to protect hunting dogs

 Sunday 21 November 2021


The Spanish Galgo, an ancient and noble breed of hunting dog. Like any other, a dog worthy of our respect. Sadly, here in the South of Spain, a dog more generally misused and abused, discarded and abandoned - and those latter are the lucky ones.

Now a Spanish senator is asking the government to act to protect these wonderful, loyal dogs. Please sign the petition if you can. You may also share this message with other animal lovers through the channels available to you.😊

https://www.spanjevandaag.com/19/11/2021/spaanse-senator-vraagt-regering-in-actie-te-komen-om-jachthonden-te-beschermen/

So many cruel things are excused in the name of 'tradition', like the terrible treatment the Galgos and Podencos and bullfighting. It can only be a good thing that people in Spain realise that this is also being watched from abroad. 

Add your voice ... sign the petition here:- savethegalgos.org



A long delayed visit to the Refugio

 Friday 19th November 2021

In 'normal' times I was lucky to be able to visit the Refugio every year, sometimes twice a year. And then two things happened. First a small dog ... and then Covid.

The small dog is Teddy Edward, formerly Dunde. On my last visit - in September 2018 - I adopted this little three legged mutt. I felt it important to give him time to settle in so it was over a year before I was able to come out again. Everything was arranged - Teddy had a nice temporary home and I had my ticket and was getting very excited ... then suddenly we were in lockdown and no one was going anywhere!

Last month, almost three years after my last visit I was finally able to fly out to Spain. It had been such a long time but reassuringly so much was the same. Obviously Covid and all the restrictions has taken a toll. I can't imagine how tough it must have been in the past two years under the Covid restrictions with no students to help, no possibility of rehoming the dogs for long stretches and not even to mention the floods, the threat of fire and the many other difficulties and obstacles that arose.

While the end of Covid has brought new problems - for example the massive increase in the number of dogs being dumped - the restrictions actually had some positive outcomes. During lockdown no dogs or cats could leave the site so that when some restrictions were lifted, it was imperative to be able to start rehoming as soon as possible. Air transport was impossible for some time, so an alternative had to be found. The answer - road transport. Not only does this mean that many more can travel at one time, but there are very few time consuming trips to the airport, with all the driving and the waiting around that that entailed. One thing that hasn't changed is the amazing support of both volunteers donors. So generous with their time, their energy and their financial support. Truly the Refugio could not continue without them. 

It was good to see some new faces, though I also missed some familiar ones. The students are back, a lovely hardworking group of youngsters. The Refugio is as usual full to bursting, but things are moving. New admissions and a bunch of happy ending dogs. The day after I left the transporter arrived to bring another bunch of darling cats and dogs to their eagerly awaiting new owners. However, plus ca change .... in the week I was there yet another obstacle was thrown in our path. The new 'animal welfare' law in Holland (and soon in the whole of the EU) that, while intending to stop such evils as puppy farms and animal trafficking, is in fact catching legitimate animal shelters in it's net and thus making life even more difficult for all those hard working organisations that just want to save and care for animals. If you haven't already done so, please sign out petition on the front of the new website.



A small dog. Teddy Edward, the culprit ... well him and Covid!!


A lovely bunch of students with Fabienne


With Veerle, all of the wonderful students and some of the darling dogs.




A massive HGV arrived one morning, delivering wonderful gifts for our dogs. With heartfelt thanks to all the generous donors and to our collection volunteers who give up so much of their time to help co-ordinate everything.

   


Bring your dog to the office day ....🀣


The cats are still on cat mountain. This sweet fellow has found a very clever place to sleep!





November 17, 2021

A new direction .....

 Wednesday 17th November 2021                                                                  


Hello to all readers of the English Blog. 

First, many apologies for the lack of posts in the last few weeks. As you will know, we have a splendid new website, which is still having last minute tweaks and fixes. So please bear with us.

As to the English Blog. It's still here - currently called Ace Doggie Blog, though that might change. (Suggestions for a new name are welcome!) You'll find it under 'News and Stories', and eventually there will be a link on the front page. 

However, there will be some changes. As you can see many of the stories and posts - e.g. Fabienne's Diary, In Memoriam, Fabienne's Dog of the Week, Happy Endings (stories from happy adopters and their beloved dogs and cats) etc. -  now all appear on the main website, and are in Dutch and English (depending on which version of the website you are looking at). So whereas, formerly, these were incorporated into the English Blog (translated mostly from the Dutch Blog), there is now no need to simply repeat these in the English Blog.

Instead it will go back to being more like it was in the beginning, ten years ago. With a mix of specially written stories and articles and information. It gives us the opportunity to highlight certain dogs and cats, for instance our long stayers. Darling dogs and some cats who, although totally deserving of every happiness, for some reason are overlooked. Black dogs and cats also deserve a special mention and I will hope to write some articles about the history of black animals, and the reasons they have unfortunately got such an unfortunate reputation. 

Among this new material will be information  about fundraising activities, articles for sale for the benefit of our dogs and cats etc. The aim is to make sure everything is accessible to our English speaking readers, but only if it's not available elsewhere on the website.

There will not be as many posts as before, with so many of the essential stories now on the main website. However, until the all the links are active, I will try to include some of these for the time being.

Please bear with me as I get myself up to speed. There will be more stories and information hopefully by the end of the week. So watch this space ... and thank you.

October 31, 2021

Four traumatised Maltese terriers ...

They came in with a lot of fear, after their owners didn't want them anymore. It took us months to get them back to normal a bit, because in the beginning the dogs were terrified and terrified. Now, with the attention and many people around them, they are gradually getting used to the fact that no one will do anything to them and they can be adopted, but by owners who have to take patience and time to get used to them in their new environment. becoming, the rhythm of the day, the family, the environment, everything.

They are Maltese at heart, have all the traits of their breed, and are very loyal and affectionate once they entrust their hearts to you. They will be a bit hesitant at first, but they will be fine.

Averell, William, Jack and Joe are now looking for a warm basket and a home where they can be happy!



WILL YOU FOSTER A DOG OR CATTHAT'S UP FOR ADOPTION? OR WOULD YOU LIKE TO GIVE A FOSTERSHIP GIFT?

Thursday, October 28, 2021 








Duran, Leon, Wendi en Wodan have found a virtual foster! The virtual fosterer pays €15 a month for their food and care. Duan and Leon have just one foster who pays € 50 a month and that becomes a STAR-FOSTER!

Would you also like to foster a dog or cat of your choice, up to its adoption? Or would you like to give this as a gift? If so, please send an email to virtual.adoptions@ace-charity.org

October 30, 2021

Spritzke was allowed to join us today!

 Friday 29 October 2021

He is so nervous in the Refugio but once withpeople who know him and take him out for a walk you will see a world of difference! How unlucky can a dog be to have been loved and have lived in a house.. and now in shelter waiting for someone to take him into their heart....

For more information about Spritzke, please click on his name.




ARE YOU GOING TO JOIN THE SHIN DOG WALK ON 7TH NOVEMBER

Friday 29th October 2021


You can discover the beautiful Druivenstreek at your own pace via mapped out walks. And you'll be supporting our dogs in Spain by doing it.

Vanessa and David will also be selling their well-known waffles, butter galettes, frangipanes, square jams, truffles and chocolate seafood on site, for the benefit of our four-legged friends in Spain.

So block November 7 in your calendar and register via our webshop via https://aceshin.steunons.be/product.../hondenwandel/. Just click on the poster. That way we can better prepare for the number of participants.

Bring your family, relatives, neighbors, friends and colleagues. Everyone is welcome, with or without dog(s).


Fabienne's Diary: A CRY FOR HELP!!! Please sign and share our petition.

  Sunday 24 October 2021

This is a cry for help!! As a rescue organization (ACE Charity) we have been trying to be the voice of thousands and thousands of animals for 22 years. Today I don't just speak for them but cry and beg for them: Don't forsake us!!!!

How is it possible that after 22 years of rescue in which we as an organization have always, always kept to the rules and transported our dogs and cats completely in order, as required by law, to the Netherlands,how is it that we are now being abandoned? Our adopters (voluntarily) go through an entire adoption procedure, allow a home visit for checking, and patiently wait for their dog or kitten to make the trip without knowing exactly when in advance.

Partly because of them, and especially thanks to our countless volunteers who work selflessly in Spain, the Netherlands and Belgium, day in day out, without any compensation or subsidy, we have been able to save almost 25,000 animals over the past 22 years and provide them with a happy home. . We can now write a book about all rescue and success stories.

But if it is up to the Dutch government, we must now close this book and no new success stories can be written.

The new measures that they want to take effect on November 1 (next week!) are almost impossible for a foundation like ours to follow. It is believed that this can stop malicious practices, but the opposite is true. They include new quarantine rules, which would mean that adopters are no longer allowed to receive their adoptive dog or kitten directly, and stricter registration rules that would deter many adopters. When we heard about these measures, we lost our hearts, but we have to and want to move on, for our dogs and kittens!

That's why we call on everyone to join us as the voice for our dogs and cats!

Please, all sign the petition below!!

Please note you will receive an email in which you have to confirm your vote, keep an eye on your spam folder!

https://petities.nl/petitions/help-zwerfdierstichtingen-met-betere-wetten-en-reglement?locale=nl&fbclid=IwAR2lwmzNJHrlCdiAGPF0_3i4tt5XnGxbpbxCcRS-OIGSE4Y4D8cVLjGs8WU


Foldable food and drink bowls

 Friday 29 October 2021

With these foldable food and drink bowls you can give your dog his kibble and water anywhere and anytime. And you support our dogs buy buying them.

You can order via our webshop: https://aceshin.steunons.be/.../opfoldbare-eet-drinkbakkens/

All proceeds go to our shelter in Spain.



πŸŽƒSPECIAL HALLOWEEN WEEK OF THE ACE BLACK CATSπŸŽƒπŸ‘»

Thursday 28th October 2021


Today meet two stunning ladies with very playful spirit - GRITA and KITTY😻    


    


Grita loves her wet food and is the loudest one to ask for it - but she magically keeps a slender figure🧚🏿‍♀️
She investigates all toys in her reach and can spend hours playing with them. Her distinguishing mark are 
cute whiskers on the chin🐭

KITTY is a funny cat who gives little joyful bites when receiving scratches on the head. She takes running after bouncy balls pretty seriously and is very vocal while preparing to jump at them. A real mini-panther❤️🐈‍⬛ 

For more information about Grita and Kitty, please click on their names.

October 27, 2021

WILL YOU JOIN THE SHIN DOG WALK ON NOVEMBER 7?

 Saturday, October 23, 2021




You can discover the beautiful Druivenstreek at your own pace via mapped out walks. And you'll be supporting our dogs in Spain by doing it.

Vanessa and David will also be selling their well-known waffles, butter galettes, frangipanes, square jams, truffles and chocolate seafood on site, for the benefit of our four-legged friends in Spain.

So block November 7 in your calendar and register via our webshop via https://aceshin.steunons.be/product.../hondenwandel/. Just click on the poster. That way we can better prepare for the number of participants.

Bring your family, relatives, neighbors, friends and colleagues. Everyone is welcome, with or without dog(s).