Page 23 - Fiji Traveller 7

and eventually put them up for adoption," Abello shares. projects.
"Our shelter is a sanctuary for these animals; we see cases In a recent collaboration with the Ministry of Forestry, Fiji
ranging from skin conditions caused by ticks and fleas to more Airways, International School Nadi, and Tourism Fiji, the
severe injuries from accidents or abuse. Every life we save is a organisation embarked on a reforestation project at its Nadi
victory.” property.
While the day-to-day challenges are significant, Animals Fiji "We're replanting a whole acre of land at our Nadi clinic and
also confronts more harrowing cases of animal abuse. shelter, transforming it back into a native tropical dry forest,"
"We occasionally come across animals with collars embedded says Abello.
in their skin or injuries from car collisions," says Abello. “This initiative not only restores biodiversity but also mitigates
"It's heartbreaking, but it drives us to work harder and advocate climate change effects and provides a sanctuary for our wildlife
for stricter animal welfare laws." rehabilitation.”
Funding remains a constant hurdle for Animals Fiji, as they To support their cause and experience the work of Animals
rely solely on donations, grants, and treatment costs. The Fiji firsthand, tourists and locals are encouraged to visit the Nadi
organisation receives no government assistance. clinic, which is 2.5 kilometres from the Nadi International Airport.
"Being a charity organisation means we operate on a tight Visitors can choose from a variety of tour options, ranging from a
budget," Abello admits. behind-the-scenes look at the clinic's daily operations to private
"But the support from our donors, both locally and tours tailored for families or groups.
internationally, keeps us going. Every donation, no matter how The tours not only offer a unique insight into animal rescue
small, makes a difference." and welfare but also contribute to the organisation's ongoing
Animals Fiji is looking to innovations, including the building efforts to improve animal lives in Fiji.
of a mobile veterinary outreach clinic—a bus equipped with all With their efforts and the community's backing, Animals Fiji
the necessary facilities for on-the-go veterinary services. The continues to make a lasting impact, one animal at a time.
organisation aims to raise FJ$40,000 to fully outfit the bus. It is
halfway there. For shelter visits and tour bookings, visit animalsfiji.org
Animals Fiji is also committed to environmental sustainability

23