ancaflori, Author at ROLDA

The anticipation of bringing home a new dog creates a palpable sense of excitement. You’re likely picturing all the delightful moments in store, such as your pup relaxing on the comfortable couch or joyfully exploring the vibrant yard. It is essential to make your home safe and comfortable for your new pet.

Prior to the arrival of your new furry friend, ensure the safety and security of your home with these simple steps to make it dog-proof.

1. Getting the house ready for your new puppy involves a few important steps.

To ensure the safety of puppies, it’s crucial to remove any hazardous objects from their reach, considering their tendency to explore with their mouths. Don’t forget to ensure that either properly managed electrical cords tucking them away or securing them. Take precautions by relocating cleaning supplies, personal products, and sharp objects to higher shelves that are inaccessible to your dog.

2. Take caution and secure fragile items in a safe place.

Remove any delicate, breakable, or small objects from the low tables or shelves to ensure safety. As your puppy begins to mature and become more relaxed, you can gradually reintroduce these items.

3. Ensure that snacks and medicine are kept in a place where they cannot be accessed easily.

It is vital to avoid feeding dogs’ human food, especially snacks and sweets, as it can have negative effects on their well-being. Store food and medications securely in cabinets or drawers, ensuring they are tightly sealed and kept away from any potential exposure.

4. Secure Trash Cans and Toilets

Safeguard your trash cans from dogs by firmly fastening them or keeping them out of their reach, as dogs have an instinct to explore them. If needed, child-proof locks can be added to cabinets and toilet lids to ensure safety and avoid accidents.

5. Check Your Plants

Certain plants can be dangerous for dogs because of their toxicity. Taking precautions for the well-being of your pets, it is recommended to either move your houseplants or verify if they pose any risks.

6. Create ‘Off-Limit’ Areas

Certain rooms, such as a home office or a room with valuables, can be kept off-limits to your puppy to ensure their safety. Just be prepared for the constant sound of whimpering if your pup wants to tag along!

7. Get a Crate or Pen

When you cannot monitor your puppy, a crate or playpen can furnish them with a secure and cosy environment. It helps them feel secure and keeps them safe while you step away for short periods, like a protective shield.

8. Protect Stairs and Heaters

Take precautions to prevent accidents by using baby gates to block stairs and ensuring that heaters or fireplaces are safely out of reach.

Outdoor Proofing

To ensure safety, it’s recommended to fence off or cover your pool if you have one. By keeping your yard well-maintained and free of clutter, you can easily identify any hazards. Also, remember to be vigilant about ticks or other pests that may be present in the grass.

Bringing Your Puppy Home

Remember to bring a small towel or blanket when you pick up your puppy, so they have something familiar and comforting. Achieve the familiar scent by rubbing the towel or blanket on the mother and siblings. This will help your puppy feel secure and at ease during the journey home and in their new surroundings.

The Car Ride

On the drive home, ensure that you keep your puppy in your arms in the car, wrapping them in a familiar-scented cloth to help them feel secure. Leaving your puppy alone in the backseat during its initial car ride may cause anxiety or distress, so it is not recommended. Whether it’s excitement or nerves, having wipes readily available can save the day.

Implementing these straightforward measures will not only ensure the safety of your new puppy but also establish a warm atmosphere, setting the groundwork for a harmonious life together!

Dogs, much like humans, can feel bored with the repetitive daily routine. While routines are important for keeping things organised, it’s worth considering how this influences your dog’s sense of stability and predictability. A predictable environment is beneficial for dogs, but an excess of monotony can induce boredom and a sense of restlessness.

Dogs, being highly sociable and incredibly smart, truly stand out as remarkable animals. They are widely known and admired for their impressive ability to solve problems and their remarkable intelligence. To ensure their happiness and good health, they must attempt to keep their minds stimulated and engaged. Dogs can experience a notable decrease in age-related problems, including canine dementia, by engaging in mental stimulation activities.

Why Mental Stimulation is Especially Important for Some Breeds

While all dogs benefit from mental stimulation, it is of utmost importance for working or hunting breeds. Each of these dogs has a specific purpose for which breeders selectively bred them, such as herding livestock, aiding humans in various tasks, or pursuing prey in the wild. Dogs from these breeds are not suited for lounging around the house all day, as they require mental stimulation to thrive.

Keep in mind your dog’s instincts, regardless of the breed you chose. Ignoring natural behaviours can cause behavioural problems.

Dog boredom signs

Dogs may display destructive behaviour when they are bored and lack mental stimulation. Boredom is often showed by:
• Your dog’s excessive barking could be because of a lack of mental engagement.
• Digging stimulates dogs both physically and mentally.
• Problematic chewing occurs when your dog targets furniture or shoes.
• Bored dogs may scratch, dig, or destroy things.
• Restlessness may occur in active breeds because of lack of activity.
• Tail chasing and excessive licking are signs of boredom in dogs.
• A bored dog may seek new experiences by trying to escape.
• Your dog may steal items in front of you to provoke a chase or gain attention.
• Panting or whining often signal frustration and a desire for interaction.
• Extreme excitement upon your arrival suggests boredom in your dog.
• Dogs jump on people for attention when bored.

You can mentally stimulate your dog in different ways.

With toys
For those new to dog ownership, the temptation to buy toys on a whim can be hard to resist. However, knowledgeable owners recognise the necessity of choosing the right toys that will engage and entertain their dog. Find toys that encourage mental stimulation for your dog, such as puzzles or interactive games.
• Puzzle Toys: Toys with hidden compartments for treats are great for keeping your dog’s mind engaged. These toys encourage your dog to use problem-solving skills as they paw, flip, or nudge the toy to find the reward. Be sure the puzzle isn’t too difficult, as this can lead to frustration.
• Designed with curious dogs in mind, the activity boards offer a fun and interactive experience. Treat-filled surprises await your dog as they navigate activity boards, opening, closing, and pressing buttons. By participating in these activities, your dog can experience the same level of satisfaction as exploring objects in the house, but in a way that is both safe and productive. Remember to consider the various lights and sounds—they may fascinate some dogs, but others may be uncomfortable.
• Designed to stimulate your dog’s sense of smell, Snuffle Mats feature a soft and textured surface that conceals delicious treats. These toys engage your dog’s natural inclination to scavenge, satisfying it and resulting in prolonged amusement. Ensure that you supervise your dog carefully when using these mats and opt for high-quality ones to ensure safety.
• Dogs find endless joy in chasing or pawing at Wobble Balls, the self-moving balls designed to keep them entertained. They often enhance the interactive experience by including treat compartments.
• Tug toys are a beloved choice for interactive play, where you can actively take part in your pet’s happiness and well-being. While you have the option to use improvised items like sticks or bottles, toys designed specifically for tugging provide a safer and more enduring experience. They offer a wonderful chance to create a deeper connection with your dog while enjoying their company.

With no toys in sight, the children found joy in simple activities, like chasing butterflies and climbing trees. While toys can be fun, the warmth and connection that come from your presence and undivided attention is truly irreplaceable. For dogs to feel complete, they require the constant connection and interaction with their human companions.

Taking part in activities such as hide-and-seek, fetch, or simply running around together can deliver a fantastic mental and physical exercise. Don’t let fatigue stop you from giving your dog the attention they deserve. Give them the opportunity to join you on your daily chores, experiencing the bustling streets and vibrant markets firsthand. If your dog becomes intrigued by a fresh aroma, encourage them to explore—it offers a mental challenge that is as significant as physical exertion.

By setting aside time for play and mental activities, you’ll be supporting your dog’s well-being and cognitive abilities, keeping them happy, healthy, and mentally sharp. Remember your dog views you as the centre of their universe, so providing them with a little extra attention can enrich their daily experiences.
a lasting and blissful companionship.

As the floods struck Galați County in the dead of night, terrified residents scrambled to find safety, seeking refuge in attics or scrambling to higher ground in a desperate bid for survival. Tragically, the floods claimed seven lives and reduced countless homes to rubble, leaving the affected with nothing in a mere moment. International news outlets extensively covered the tragedy, and the heart-wrenching images vividly depicted the immense destruction.

Flooding has always been a recurring issue in this region. In the previous year, the ROLDA team, accompanied by our friends Lolita and Michele from Switzerland, provided canned food, blankets, and supplies for animals to this exact location. However, this time, the water levels had risen significantly, surpassing two meters in certain areas.

The floods swept away countless farm animals—pigs, goats, cows, chickens—leaving the villagers devastated and with little means to recover. Despite the promise of protective infrastructure, they now find themselves surrounded by dilapidated ruins and muddy terrain, desperately awaiting essential help. Heart-wrenching stories have emerged, such as the one about a woman who valiantly held her 89-year-old mother above the floodwaters for seven agonizing hours until her unfortunate demise.

ROLDA acted swiftly, staying true to our mission of supporting both the community and the animals they nurture. Witnessing the destruction firsthand, we saw people in tears, their homes reduced to piles of trash—furniture, electronics, cars, even house walls—covered in mud and debris. Scattered around were lifeless animals, their presence a grim reminder of the harshness of the scene. In addition, the rain persisted, adding to the overall melancholy.

Journal:

15.09
Among the flood-hit villages, Slobozia Conachi was difficult to witness. The night before, the piercing sound of sirens echoed through the air as severe weather alerts blared, signalling imminent danger. In the light of day, the village lay in ruins, a somber reminder of its former glory. The floods had wreaked havoc, claiming the lives of both humans and animals, including a disabled person. As shocked residents tirelessly cleared water and mud from their homes, I couldn’t bring myself to capture too many photos. Among them were elderly people, their frail hands empty and trembling, a poignant symbol of all they had lost.Once the situation stabilises, my plan is to locate the humanitarian camp and provide nourishment for both the hungry people and the desperate animals. Their focus right now is survival, and they may not be open to accepting help from their animals just yet. Getting to the village was a challenge, not only because of the blocked roads but also because officials from Bucharest had arrived, offering aid.

16.09
We made our way back to Slobozia Conachi and the surrounding villages, distributing bags of dry food to those in need. Telling us he no longer had any animals left to feed, one man was in tears. The sound pierced through her heart, leaving her feeling shattered. In the middle of the night, another woman recounted her harrowing rescue by firefighters. As they navigated through the flooded streets, the sound of rain pouring, and thunder rumbling filled the air. She introduced us to her large dog, which sprawled on the floor, too tired to stand. Seeking refuge on top of the furniture, the dog survived by staying dry and away from the rising water. Despite his frailty, he was still breathing when she returned, a glimmer of hope amidst the overwhelming grief.

17.09
Despite the rain, we pressed on, determined to reach other villages like Cudalbi, further from Galați. As the downpour continued, people were tirelessly working to clear the mud from their homes and gardens, their efforts seeming futile as the rain only made things worse. Despite the challenges they faced, the villagers stayed determined, their gratitude clear as they eagerly accepted the bags of food for their animals.One man beamed with pride as he showed us a little dog he had bravely saved from the floodwaters, peacefully slumbering in the garden beside her mother. With the falling night and persistent rain, we made our way back to Slobozia Conachi. At the humanitarian camp, the sound of sirens filled the air as firefighters and soldiers rushed to assist us in distributing bags of dry food to those in need.

Once a dog becomes a part of your life, feeding them may appear straightforward—simply offer food twice daily, in moderate amounts. To ensure the well-being and extended lifespan of your dog, there are other aspects to take into consideration apart from merely feeding them. Canines have developed the ability to live harmoniously with humans, yet their nutritional requirements exhibit considerable variation according to breed, age, size, and individual health conditions. It is not as simple as assuming that all dogs have identical dietary needs.

With the progression of our knowledge regarding canine health, our approach to their nourishment has also developed. Nowadays, many dog owners are eager to provide proper nourishment to promote a lengthy, joyful, and robust life for their beloved pets. We no longer consider table scraps as the norm. We should tailor dog food to each breed’s specific needs, not one-size-fits-all.

Where Should You Begin?

For those who have recently become dog owners, the initial action to take is to schedule a visit with a veterinarian. Depending on where you got your dog, you might have some info about their age, breed, how big they’ll get, and any health problems. Don’t forget to think about these factors when planning their diet.

Some people just give their dogs whatever food they can find. This might work, but it could cause health problems later. It’s crucial to select the right dog food for each life stage because their nutritional needs change as they grow. Stray dogs survive by scavenging, while domesticated dogs have more complex nutritional needs because they rely on us for food.

Let’s see how different things affect what food is best for your dog.

Age
Dogs need different food as they get older. Puppies need different things than adult or senior dogs. This might seem obvious, but it’s important to know why these differences are important.

Puppy Nutrition
Puppies undergo a period of rapid growth, which is the most significant in their lives. Small breeds typically achieve approximately 80% of their adult size between the ages of six to nine months. Medium-sized breeds may require up to 12 months, while large breeds may need up to 18 months. Their dietary intake should be conducive to the development of muscles, formation of bones, and proper functioning of organs.

A healthy diet for puppies entails the provision of essential minerals, protein, and high-quality fats. Their bones need phosphorus and calcium, their blood needs iron, and their eyes and brain need omega-3s. Homemade food for your puppy is great, but they might need some extra nutrients.

Since puppies have small tummies, they should eat small meals often—around four to six times a day. Ask your vet to help you find the right quantities.

Adult Dog Nutrition
Once your dog is fully grown, the focus shifts to maintaining their diet. The priority changes from growth to the maintenance of muscle mass, a fortified immune system, and organ function. Adult dogs typically require a diet containing approximately 5% fat, 18% protein, and a balanced combination of vitamins, minerals, and omega-6 fatty acids, which may vary depending on their size, breed, and activity level. When you are cooking meals at home, change the supplements based on your dog’s changing needs as they age.

Adult dogs generally eat two or three times a day. It’s a good idea to discuss the appropriate portion size with your vet.

Senior Dog Nutrition
As dogs age, their nutritional needs change once again. Senior dogs require a diet that supports their immune system more than their energy levels to help prevent age-related diseases and weight gain. For known breeds, people usually consider dogs as seniors when they reach 75% of their expected lifespan. If you lack certainty about your dog’s breed or age, your veterinarian can provide guidance in identifying the onset of their senior years.

Signs of aging are rough fur, less energy, and joint or dental problems. Dogs don’t need as many calories now to avoid weight gain and joint problems. They should eat enough protein to keep their muscles strong, more fibre for good digestion, antioxidants to boost their immune system, omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation, and glucosamine for healthy cartilage and heart.

Health Conditions
Besides age-related needs, dogs may have specific dietary requirements based on their health conditions. For example, if a dog is spayed or neutered, it will affect their metabolism, resulting in a potential need for fewer calories. Any medical condition, regardless of whether it involves postoperative recovery, allergic reactions, or chronic management, can affect your dog’s dietary requirements. Prioritise seeking advice from your veterinarian concerning any necessary dietary alterations.

Size and Breed
Ensuring that dogs receive quality food is essential, and it is important to consider their size and breed, as these factors significantly affect their unique dietary requirements. As an example, it is essential to regulate carefully the rapid growth of all puppies. To prevent joint problems, it is important to regulate the energy intake of large breed puppies. Smaller breeds have different nutrient requirements that need to be balanced accordingly.

Activity Level
The activity level of a dog also plays a role in determining its nutritional requirements. Breeds with high activity levels, such as Australian Border Collies, possess distinct needs compared to less active breeds, like Basset Hounds. Among dogs of the same breed, watching the energy levels of your dog is essential. Consulting your veterinarian is crucial to ensure that you avoid overfeeding or underfeeding.

Treats and Human Food
Rewarding dogs with treats from your plate isn’t a good idea, even though they are known for their begging. By refraining from feeding your dog directly from your plate, you can teach them to avoid begging. If you give in from time to time, they will continue their efforts, fully aware that begging eventually pays off.

It’s fine to treat your dog to healthy snacks like fruits and veggies but check with your vet. It is advisable to limit the provision of snacks to your dog throughout the day, as the accumulated calories can become significant.

Foods to Avoid
While dogs share the omnivorous diet characteristic of humans, certain human foods pose risks to their well-being. Certain types of food can have a toxic effect on dogs, such as:
• Chocolate
• Caffeine
• Garlic
• Onions
• Mushrooms
• Tomatoes
• Citrus fruits
• Foods with artificial sweeteners, especially xylitol
• Macadamia nuts
• Grapes and raisins
• Alcohol
• Milk
• Raw eggs
• Raw or smoked fish
• Ice cream
• Avocados
• Chicken bones
• Liver
• Raw dough

Seek guidance from your vet to ensure the food your dog consumes is safe. Regular veterinary examinations and ongoing conversations about nutritional habits can contribute to the long-term health and happiness of your dog. Once a routine is established, ensuring proper nourishment for your dog becomes instinctive, thereby fostering a lasting and blissful companionship.

This article contains several key highlights of the interview. For the full interview, watch the entire podcast!

In our latest episode of the “Paws & Reflect” podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Stacey, an avid animal lover, advocate, and ROLDA adopter. Stacey shared her heartfelt journey of adopting pets, including her experience with ROLDA, an international animal rescue organization and our sponsor. This interview sheds light on the dedication and love required to give abandoned animals a second chance at life.

The Adoption Process

Stacey’s journey began with a deep-seated passion for animal rights. Originally from California, Stacey moved to South Carolina, where her commitment to animal advocacy grew stronger. She started by signing petitions and writing letters to schools, gradually becoming more involved in animal welfare organizations.

Stacey first learned about ROLDA through an email. Intrigued by their mission and impressed by their dedication, she began following their newsletters and updates. Her interest in ROLDA’s work eventually led her to consider adopting a pet from them. After seeing the pets available for adoption, she felt a strong connection with a puppy named Dream, later renamed Jaxton.

The Rigorous Vetting Process

ROLDA’s adoption process is thorough and meticulous, ensuring that every pet goes to a loving and capable home. Stacey described how she had to provide a detailed overview of her home and lifestyle, including a FaceTime tour of her house, to demonstrate that she could provide a safe and nurturing environment for Jaxton. This vetting process also included background checks and a commitment to provide regular updates on Jaxton’s well-being for the first two weeks.

Overcoming Challenges

The journey wasn’t without its challenges. Due to her mother’s illness, Stacey couldn’t personally pick up Jaxton from JFK airport. She had to hire a pet transport company, Save Them All, to bring Jaxton home. Despite a few hiccups, including an unexpected ransom fee at the airport, Stacey successfully brought Jaxton into her family. His seamless integration into her household, despite being a large puppy, was a testament to ROLDA’s careful matchmaking process.

The Importance of International Adoption

Stacey’s experience highlights the importance and impact of international pet adoption. While acknowledging the need for adopting local pets, she emphasized that pets overseas often face harsher conditions and greater danger. For Jaxton, finding a home with Stacey meant escaping a life of uncertainty and potential harm.

A Testament to ROLDA’s Mission

Stacey’s story is a powerful testament to ROLDA’s mission and dedication. The organization’s careful vetting process and continued support for adopters ensure that pets find the right homes. Stacey’s ongoing communication with Dana, the founder of ROLDA, further illustrates the organization’s commitment to its cause.

Final Thoughts

Stacey’s journey with ROLDA and her dedication to animal welfare serves as an inspiration. Her story underscores the importance of supporting organizations like ROLDA, whether through adoption, donations, or spreading awareness. As Stacey rightly pointed out, every little bit helps, and together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of abandoned and vulnerable animals.

Guest Bio:

Stacey is an individual living in South Carolina who went through the ROLDA adoption process. For privacy concerns, this is all of the information we are giving about our guest speaker.

About the Host

Alexander Taylor Clayton is the dedicated host of “Paws & Reflect,” a podcast that delves into the deep connections between humans and animals. With a background in anthropology and environmental sustainability, Alexander is passionate about animal welfare and advocating for a better world. Their commitment to making a positive impact shines through in each episode, as they bring insightful conversations with experts and activists to the forefront. Alexander’s goal is to inspire listeners to reflect on their relationship with animals and the natural world, fostering a culture of empathy and action.

ROLDA Information

ROLDA, the Romanian League in Defense of Animals, is a leading animal welfare organization dedicated to rescuing and protecting animals in Romania. Their mission is to provide immediate aid through rescue and rehabilitation while also implementing long-term solutions to prevent animal suffering. ROLDA’s initiatives include spay/neuter campaigns, building modern sanctuaries, and community education programs. By addressing the root causes of animal homelessness and neglect, ROLDA is creating a sustainable and compassionate future for animals and communities alike. To support ROLDA’s vital work, visit ROLDA’s website and consider donating at ROLDA’s donation page.

A few days ago, I returned from another trip to the Ukraine. As you read this, please understand that this isn’t a corporate report filled with numbers and statistics (though we can provide those), but something written from the heart—my heart.

I had a goal, to deliver food to the animal centre opened by Olena in Mykolaiv, and a place where I could meet the vulnerable animals with special needs, animals we at ROLDA helped provide aid for, many injuries I had seen only from photographs but now I get to see the recovery myself in person.

I take these journeys often, and part of the journey is delayed at customs.
I came prepared with food and water, knowing customs delays are common. I brought my own provisions to avoid unnecessary stops along the way.

I crossed the Danube at Isaccea and headed to the Palanka checkpoint, where they checked the car again. The next military checkpoint was in Odessa, where sirens repeatedly warned of an air attack. I watched how people behaved, and it’s incredible how war has changed them. Two years ago, at the start of the war, the roads were empty, with hardly any cars or people. Now, people ignore the siren warnings; they park their cars, go shopping, eat at restaurants, walk their dogs, and visit the beaches. They have adapted to living with the war in their daily lives in a way that you must see to truly understand.

The road from Odesa to Mykolaiv had several military checkpoints. The road became very bumpy because of the heavy trucks and military vehicles, although it wasn’t bombed. You could see military defense systems along the road, in the fields, and in the water. The rough roads and chaotic traffic reminded me of home. The round trip was approximately 1000 km.
When I arrived, Olena and her team welcomed me with such warmth and love. Firstly, we unloaded all the food from my car, and then Olena proudly showed me around the center.
As Olena doesn’t speak English and I don’t speak Ukrainian, we both decided to use a translation app on our phones. She would speak on her phone, and the app translated her words into English for me to read or hear. I would then type my responses, which the app translated back into Ukrainian. Although this took a little while, it allowed us to communicate well together.

At one point, I saw a coin on the floor. I placed it in Olena’s hand and told her something she would likely never forget: “Back home, I was told that every time you find a coin, you should pick it up because if it’s in your way, it means that someone from Heaven is thinking of you.” I didn’t know her story then, but after learning about her life, I knew the coin held significant meaning for her.

Olena started her organization in memory of her lost family. Her husband died unexpectedly in 2014, leaving her without the will to live. Her grandmother and the animals she rescued gave her life new meaning. Then sadly, she recently lost her grandmother, and now the animals are all she has. Her animal centre is an old building with a basement converted into a small shelter for dogs and cats, a storage room, and two small spaces—one for staff and one for their quarantine area. Despite the challenges of inconsistent water and electricity, Olena does whatever she can to ensure the animals in her care have a future.

As part of ROLDA’s support for #UkraineAnimals, we provide ongoing grants to rescuers and organizations who we partner with. We have supported Olena and learned about Leo, a tomcat, and Lucky, who is a special dog, both of whom we’ve sent money for in the past. It was moving in an incredible way to finally see and interact with them. Lucky was left paralyzed after being hit by a car. Animals with special needs require dedicated care, which is difficult to provide during wartime. Making the decision to put a dog to sleep is challenging, but it should always be guided by what is best for the animal’s well-being. Seeing Lucky’s joy and smile, I understood why Olena found it hard to make that decision.

Leo, the rescued tomcat, is recovering after almost losing his life. Given these extraordinary circumstances, we should avoid judgment and make sure to ideally isolate and quarantine animals. In normal times, I would hope for Olena to have a shelter where animals could enjoy sunlight, fresh air, and spacious enclosures. Quarantine areas should have separate areas for dogs and cats, and good ventilation to help reduce the risk of spreading disease. Animals with special needs deserve a chance to thrive when given appropriate medical care and attention.

I was thrilled when Olena suggested I could walk Lucky. It was heartwarming to see how happy he was. Despite the hot day making him tired, he kept moving with his cart, only pausing briefly for a hug.

Leaving the center and saying goodbye to Lucky was bittersweet. Olena and her team graciously showed me around their town, or what remained of it. Rockets damaged many buildings, affecting not just structures but families and lives. In the central plaza, the Ukrainian people displayed captured Russian tanks and vehicles to lift their spirits.
Despite warnings about floating mines, people continued their lives by the river, at the beach, and in the water.

Before I left, Olena showed me the coin I had given her when I arrived and said she would cherish it always. It’s remarkable how we create machines to destroy each other and yet find small ways, like the meaning of a coin, to keep hope alive. Every trip to Ukraine reveals something new. Though I wasn’t near the battle zone this time, I met people dedicated to a cause I deeply care about: animals.

Your generosity can make a world of difference. Every contribution helps save lives and gives homeless animals the care and love they need to find permanent, loving homes. If you’d like to help, please consider donating.

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This article contains several key highlights of the interview. For the full interview, watch the entire podcast!

Note: The original recording of this episode was May 1st, 2024.

Recent updates have thrust Captain Paul Watson back into the international spotlight. Watson was arrested in Greenland in connection with his ongoing efforts to protect marine wildlife from illegal whaling and fishing activities. The arrest has ignited a wave of support from environmentalists worldwide, highlighting the relentless challenges faced by activists dedicated to marine conservation. Captain Paul Watson, a pioneering figure in environmental activism, has been a relentless advocate for marine life for over four decades. As the co-founder of Greenpeace and the founder of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, Watson’s innovative and often controversial methods have made significant impacts on global marine conservation. Now, with the establishment of the Captain Paul Watson Foundation, he continues his mission with renewed vigor and determination.

The following report was released to us directly from the Captain Paul Watson Foundation in light of his arrest:

Captain Paul Watson was ambushed and arrested in Greenland

Danish police detain Environmental hero and star of “Whale Wars” on international arrest order from Japan.
NUUK, GREENLAND – JULY 21, 2024 – On the morning of Sunday, July 21st, Captain Paul Watson, co-founder of marine conservation Greenpeace, founder of Sea Shepherd and the Captain Paul Watson Foundation (CPWF), was arrested upon arrival in Nuuk, Greenland.

Captain Watson, on board his 72-meter flagship the M/Y JOHN PAUL DEJORIA stopped in Greenland with 25 volunteer crew to refuel, en route to the North West Passage as a part of the CPWF’s Operation Kangei Maru, a mission to intercept Japan’s newly built factory whaling ship Kangei Maru in the North Pacific.

“We were here, and arrested Paul due to an international arrest order from Japan”, stated the leader of the Danish federal police boarding party at the site of the arrest. The crew were given no further information.

The arrest is believed to be related to a former Red Notice issued for Captain Watson’s previous anti-whaling interventions in the Antarctic region. Japan’s Antarctic research whaling program JARPA was declared illegal by the International Court of Justice in 2014.

“We’re completely shocked, as the Red Notice had disappeared a few months ago. We were surprised because it could mean that it had been erased or made confidential. We understand now that Japan made it confidential to lure Paul into a false sense of security. We implore the Danish government to release Captain Watson and not entertain this politically-motivated request”, stated Locky MacLean, Ship Operation’s Director for CPWF.

Operating in breach of the ICJ ruling for several years, Japan eventually ceased Antarctic high-seas whaling in 2016, and now only hunts whales within its territorial waters. CPWF believes Japan plans to resume high-seas whaling in the Southern Ocean and North Pacific as early as 2025, and the reactivation of the Red Notice against Captain Watson is politically motivated and coincides with the launch of a newly built factory whale processing vessel.

In Nuuk, over a dozen Danish police and SWAT team members boarded the M/Y John Paul DeJoria as soon as it made port. After a handcuffed Captain Watson was led off of the ship, he was taken to the local police station. The crew and Foundation have no means of contacting him and have had no further news. At the time of writing, Watson remains in custody and it is unknown whether Denmark will allow Mr. Watson to be extradited to Japan.”
~ Captain Paul Watson Foundation

For more on the recent developments regarding Captain Watson’s arrest, please visit the following links:
– BBC News
– Captain Paul Watson Foundation
– France24
In this episode of “Paws & Reflect,” we dive into Captain Watson’s enduring fight for marine conservation, his philosophy, and the future of his efforts.

A Legacy of Direct Action

Captain Watson’s journey into marine conservation began in a fishing village on the east coast of Canada. From a young age, he was involved in protecting marine wildlife. His passion for conservation led him to become the youngest founding member of Greenpeace in 1972. In 1977, he founded the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, and in 2022, he established the Captain Paul Watson Foundation.

Throughout his career, Captain Watson has been known for his aggressive non-violence approach—a strategy he developed in 1977. This method involves aggressive intervention without causing harm, a principle that has remained constant in his work. Despite facing opposition and controversy, Watson’s tactics have saved tens of thousands of marine animals, including whales, seals, and dolphins.

Transition to the Captain Paul Watson Foundation

The transition from Sea Shepherd to the Captain Paul Watson Foundation was driven by internal conflicts and differing visions for the future. Captain Watson left Sea Shepherd after being told he was too controversial and confrontational. Determined to continue his mission, he founded the Captain Paul Watson Foundation, ensuring that the principles of aggressive non-violence and direct action remained at the forefront.

The foundation focuses on the protection and defense of marine life, opposing illegal exploitation such as whaling and illegal fishing. Captain Watson’s new organization aims to carry on the work that Sea Shepherd started but with a renewed emphasis on direct intervention and avoiding mainstream compromises.

Upcoming Campaigns: Operation Ice Storm and Operation Bloody Fjords

Captain Watson shared exciting details about two upcoming campaigns:
– Operation Ice Storm will target Icelandic waters, aiming to block and stop two Icelandic whaling ships. The goal is to prevent Christian Lofsson, a wealthy and influential figure in Iceland, from continuing his whaling activities, which are largely opposed by the Icelandic public.
– Operation Bloody Fjords will see the Captain Paul Watson Foundation landing crews in the Faroe Islands to intervene against the killing of pilot whales and dolphins. The campaign aims to get in the way of these illegal activities and draw global attention to the plight of these marine animals.

Challenges and Strategies

One of the biggest challenges in marine conservation is fundraising. Ships and campaigns are expensive, and raising the necessary funds is a constant struggle. However, the actual implementation of strategies and interventions is something Captain Watson is well-versed in. His extensive experience in blocking and intercepting illegal activities has proven effective in saving marine wildlife.

Captain Watson’s foundation also collaborates with other conservation groups, including Sea Shepherd France and Sea Shepherd Brazil. Despite legal battles with Sea Shepherd Global, the foundation continues to work with dedicated partners to protect marine ecosystems.

The Importance of Biocentrism

A significant part of Captain Watson’s philosophy is the concept of biocentrism—the idea that all living organisms have inherent value and are interconnected within the biosphere. This perspective challenges anthropocentrism, which places humans at the center of importance. Captain Watson emphasizes that our survival depends on living in harmony with other species and recognizing the ecological intelligence of all living beings.