Founded in 2010, Island Rescue Organization (IRO) is a non-profit organization in Cebu that is composed of volunteers who are dedicated to helping the plight of animals through rescue, education, and advocacy. They are caring for over 100 companion animals that are awaiting adoption into furever homes and also for animals that are receiving treatment and being rehabilitated for medical injuries or illnesses.
Yesterday, we donated cat and dog food to IRO using the money we raised from the postcard sales and from our own pockets as well.
We spent the Sunday afternoon at their cattery in Mandaue City, Cebu and got to meet the adorable rescue cats... and Ciangko the friendly dog! Most of them are seniors and with special needs. Some of them have injuries as they had been victims of hit and run, and others experienced abuse at the hands of heartless humans.
This is Tripod, the three-legged senior cat. He was rescued in 2017. His right front leg was in bad condition and the only way to fix it was through amputation. He may walk in an awkward way and is often shy, but he's such a sweet cat when he warms up to you.
Neglected and rescued off the streets, Ms. Annalyn of IRO has been taking care of these cats for several years now. They are not up for adoption as they need special care, especially the ones with long-term health-related issus, but the organization has lots of rescued animals looking for their furever homes at their shelter (Camp IRO) in Guba, Cebu City.
This is Siangko, the only dog at the cattery! She was rescued off the streets of Sanciangko, Cebu City where she was found neglected and suffering from mange. According to a witness, some people left her there and never came back. Thanks to the efforts of IRO, she looks very pretty now and is such a happy and playful dog!
Another one that made an impression on us was Mahusay. Back in 2017, he was rescued after being attacked by dogs. He was severely injured that his tail had to be removed and later on his back legs too, because of bacterial infection. He may be an amputee, but he is so adorable and fierce!
Our friends also visited the cattery with us and donated more supplies. We're extremely grateful for kindhearted people who love animals! Looking forward to doing this again.
You'd be surprised to know that even a lot of purebred animals have experienced neglect and abuse too, not just the puspins (pusang pinoy). It's heartbreaking to know this, that's why we have to create more awareness about animal cruelty in the hopes of making people understand that these animals' lives matter just as much as our own.
For more information about IRO, visit their official website at www.iroislandrescue.org.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Help us feed rescue animals by purchasing postcards from our PRINTS FOR THE RESCUES collection. Decorate your space with beautiful images from the sea and help animals in need at the same time!
For every postcard set sold, P200.00 will be donated to support animal rescue efforts. We will also double whatever amount we can raise from the sales so we can provide more help.