Discover more about ROLDA USA

"In a village on the outskirts of Galati, beyond the steel mill, beyond the end of the paved roads, Dana Costin had constructed the first Romanian League in Defense of Animals dog shelter as a monument to optimism. At a time when almost every other “animal shelter” in Romania was a grim canine concentration camp, where depressed dogs deprived of the opportunity to live by their wits starved, fought, and sometimes even lost hope, the ROLDA shelter was a safe, happy place."

- 

TI got off the train in Galati and Dana picked me up, she drove me to the shelter and it was so nice to catch up with her since it was almost 2 years than my last visit. At the shelter I was greeted with a lot of wagging tails and kisses. ROLDA dogs are truly happy dogs and you can see that they are well taken care of because otherwise they wouldn’t be so happy and search for attention. But with that said we need to remember that a life in a kennel is not a life for a dog and we need to work harder to get these lovely dogs to their forever home. Dana showed me the vet clinic and all the improvements that have been done since last time I visited. The sun went down and Dana showed me where I would spend the night… After a good night sleep a lovely ROLDA staff drove me to Bucharest airport. I can’t wait to do this again, meet all the  dogs, the nice staff and hopefully if we all work together bring dogs to their forever homes!

Working with ROLDA has been a really great experience. I love working with others who are so passionate about saving the lives of animals, and it’s very clear, in everything they do, that ROLDA puts the needs of the animals ahead of anything else. Through my work with ROLDA I’ve been given the opportunity to learn about the difference ROLDA is making in the lives of the stray dogs on the streets of Romania. It’s also given me a chance to share their story, and the stories of the dogs who are rescued, with animal lovers throughout the United States. I hope to work and volunteer with ROLDA for years to come, as I believe in their mission and the love they have for the dogs they rescue. A dream of mine is to visit the rescue one day, to not only meet some of the rescued dogs, but to also meet Dana, the human behind the mission. Dana is a force to be reckon with and I can confidently say her work is making a huge difference in her community, and throughout the world. I greatly appreciate the opportunity to work with such compassionate people!

The ROLDA sanctuaries are run by the devoted Dana Costin together with her co-workers. Today there are more than six hundred dogs, and the donkey Ben, for them to care for. A visit at the large sanctuary is an emotional experience : Glad to see all these dogs saved from their former life, victims of hunger, violence and danger of accidents and diseases - sad to see how much more care they need, and how many of them crave intensively for contact with humans. Rolda's goal is to adopt as many of these dogs as possible to homes in Europe, where they can get love and care and a life worthy a living soul. A lot of work is also done to cure dogs who suffer from injuries and diseases. To save lives is Rolda's aim, but also to take the responsibility to put an end to a life that consists of suffering and pain. Fundraising is not easy. Although there are many dog lovers around Europe who contribute , the need is still urgent. Costs for veterinary, vaccinations, maintenance, food for the dogs and material of all kinds is in constant need. Rolda also engage in feeding stray dogs and campaigns for sterilization of dogs in the neighborhood. Being a volunteer is for me, personally, rewarding: I can see that my money does go straight to what they are meant for, and that our work give many animals a home and a better life.

"Difficult to express in only some words the emotion felt coming to visit ROLDA shelters. I was expecting to see dirty dogs lying in bad conditions …. this is what we, Swiss people, hear about Romanian “shelters”. But in fact, when I arrived I saw all these adorable dogs, healthy, clean, well fed, in large well-appointed cages or released. No chains around their necks. And all these cages have little importance. The only thing is the love that emanates from everywhere .. The love that dogs have spontaneously given me, the love that they were given to Dana and to the employees… which are not just “working” in the shelter, but they are these dogs’ only family they have. That’s what touched me, the love that emanates from this place. Even if it’s hard to see all these dogs that are waiting for a family, I know they are getting the best in this shelter. The dogs are there, full of affection, waiting a little attention from human side … And that’s why I need to continue to help them."

"ROLDA was founded by Dana Costin. She has put together an international team of volunteers and staff that are almost all women. I believe Dana herself is an inspiration for the young women and girls who work with her, and know of her work in Romania. I myself am impressed by her perseverance, her passion, and the devotion she demonstrates to her many projects. She is determined to make her community, and her country, more compassionate through education and animal rescue projects. It has become almost a cliché, but it still warrants repeating. “The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be measured by the way it treats its animals”. Now Dana is not Gandhi! However, she and her team will drag the Romanian masses forward with a force hard to be described in simple words."

 

The ROLDA sanctuaries are run by the devoted Dana Costin together with her co-workers. Today there are more than six hundred dogs, and the donkey Ben, for them to care for. A visit at the large sanctuary is an emotional experience: Glad to see all these dogs saved from their former life, victims of hunger, violence and danger of accidents and diseases - sad to see how much more care they need, and how many of them crave intensively for contact with humans. Rolda's goal is to adopt as many of these dogs as possible to homes in Europe, where they can get love and care and a life worthy a living soul. A lot of work is also done to cure dogs who suffer from injuries and diseases. To save lives is Rolda's aim, but also to take the responsibility to put an end to a life that consists of suffering and pain. Fundraising is not easy. Although there are many dog lovers around Europe who contribute, the need is still urgent. Costs for veterinary, vaccinations, maintenance, food for the dogs and material of all kinds is in constant need. Rolda also engages in feeding stray dogs and campaigns for sterilization of dogs in the neighborhood. Being a volunteer is for me, personally, rewarding: I can see that my money does go straight to what they are meant for and that our work gives many animals a home and a better life.

Dana: I want to tell you such a big thank you for your kindness. You do such an inspiring job for all those dogs. I’m feeling so blessed to have experienced that in Galati Romania and I’m completely for your cause. Sending your best greetings and take care of you and all those sweet dogs.

After passing the gates of the large shelter ROLDA, the first thing that you'll be struck by is the silence, almost unreal of this place... and then by the thunderous barking addressed to us by the 700 doggies saved by Dana: greetings-barking often or sometimes, imperative crying-barking for attention! Then there are the emotions: Astonishment in front of the magnitude of the situation, rage against the injustice created by humans, sadness of being powerless witnesses of a miserable life to which the Romanian street dogs have been exposed, joy to finally see them rescued and safe, admiration for the endless commitment and dedication of Dana and her team,...the tears, difficult to keep them from falling... so here we are losing our thoughts deep in the pure looks of the dogs in front of us and dreaming for a better world. When, after the visit, the gates are closed, we know that a piece of ROLDA will remain forever etched in our memory. Note: Lolita visited for the first time ROLDA shelters in November 2013 and shortly after, she became one of the founders which put the bases of ROLDA Swiss sister-charity. Lolita returns regularly in Romania.

I have two small children who mean the world to me, and I would do anything for them, just as I would for an animal in pain because I believe they deserve to be treated with love and respect as well. I think of how fortunate my babies are to have me and my wife, and all I want is the same for every stray I help rescue... to have parents who care for them and love them.

The young generation is the hope for this country to solve its (many) problems.

"I am so pleased to help, in some small way, the magnificent work you do in saving the lives of abused, abandoned dogs living in appalling conditions and often near death. Bringing them some semblance of happiness with food and shelter is reward in itself, feeling sorry for their plight is not enough, you have to commit to helping them. Sincere thanks for the wonderful work you do, you are making all the difference to their lives. THANK YOU."

 

Many people would turn away from a street dog because they find them disgusting or are afraid of them. Not me. I know these poor things are just scared and hungry. Of course they're dirty! They live on the streets! What do you expect? But that doesn't make them monsters. I just want to make them feel wanted.

Jeg ønsker å ila.livet hjelpe så mange dyr jeg bare klarer, og det å oversette for en organisasjon som ROLDA, ser jeg som en indirekte mulighet til å gjøre nettopp dét!

"Wow I just looked on your page it brought tears to my eyes with happiness , your work, mission and most of all those children being involved is a crucial part of changing animals lives .Those children will be the building block and hopefully they can change the way people treat animals so important that they are involved. I also love all your ideas for the shelter , and how large so lots of doggies can be helped . Just great stuff to see . Good luck with your amazing work."

"So many horrible stories, and in the middle of this storm you stand – so incredibly brave and strong! My heart is filled with pride that there are such people as you on this planet, as much as I am filled with shame and anger at people who can mistreat and abuse helpless creatures – be it animals or children.What is wrong with humanity? Keep fighting Dana, and stay strong!"

 

I used to work in a farm, mainly with big animals like cows and horses, but they were always treated well, so it has definitely been a challenge working with scared and abused dogs. It breaks your heart at first, I mean, I think it always will, but when you see the changes they go through at ROLDA, I am grateful to be here." wanted.

I have worked with Dana and Rolda since my family adopted 2 dogs from Rolda in 2011. Dana has always been professional and passionate about her work for Rolda and the dogs. Through good and bad times, we have worked together trying to improve the life of stray dogs in Galati. Danas strength and compassion for these dogs have impressed me, she never gives up!

"2013 November 21 is a date we will never forget : It’s the day where our little “Pantera” passed away; she reached almost 16 years and had suffered from Diabetes. But November 21 is also a positive date, where Greta and Panduta arrived in Switzerland, thanks to the efforts of Lolita Morena and her friends.You, the staff, the volunteer’s and supporters of ROLDA are doing a great job. Hopefully we can contribute a little bit by spreading the word."

I cannot speak highly enough of ROLDA; the battles you’re facing on a daily basis would be too much for a lot of people and they would just turn their backs and give up, but the truly amazing animal angels of ROLDA put the needs of the neglected, hungry, frightened, injured and beaten-down street dogs first, every time. I buy lottery tickets in the hope of winning a huge amount of money – to give to brilliant organizations such as ROLDA because THEY are making our world better. Thank you so much for everything you do!You are a real angel!

My name is Anja, I live close to Hamburg and I’m 29 years old. How did I come to join this project? First of all I met Sabine last year via Twitter. We got along great from minute 1…when I met Tofu (the sweetest rascal I’ve ever seen) I fell in love the second I saw him. Sabine and I talked a lot about Romanian stray dogs and I got to know a lot about how terrible the situation in Romania is for these animals. When Sabine told me she is going to be the head of the German operation I warmed up to the idea to help too. Muffin (Sabine’s second adopted dog) helped in making the decision to join this awesome project, because you have to know Muffin is just as cute and lovable as Tofu is. You can say I found one of my life tasks in the ROLDA organization.

To shelter more than 600 dogs you need to have a good notion of organization and responsibility but more than that also a sense of respect for living souls.Yes, ROLDA is great hope for many of them to have once the chance to find a deserved peaceful life. Support ROLDA today and you will have the feeling like me to have saved a life from the death.

Åse bor i Bergen, Norge. Hun har adoptert hunder og katter fra Norge og Spania, og nå også en hund, Maja, fra Romania. Det bor rundt 600 andre hunder på våre hjelpesentre som venter på noen som Åse. Om ikke fra Norge, så kanskje fra Nederland, Storbritannia eller andre steder. De fleste Rumenere er skamfulle eller irriterte over gatehundenes tilstedeværelse, men behandler ikke hundene humant. Mennesker som Åse gjør at vi fremdeles beholder håpet på at noen forstår viktigheten av arbeidet vårt, respekterer hva vi gjør og oppmuntrer og promoterer vår virksomhet. I tillegg til å støtte oss økonomisk, kan du komme og jobbe som frivillig hos oss eller du kan dele våre aktiviteter og nyhetsbrev på nettet. Om du ser etter et loddent familiemedlem, ber vi deg huske på oss. Vi har mange vakre, smarte, friske og sunne hunder i alle størrelser, farger og fasonger som venter på deg.

We are impressed with what ROLDA has accomplished with a small amount of support. There are no other non-profits in Romania with ROLDA’s reach and dedication, which is why I support their mission. Dana is passionate, driven and effective in all she does with ROLDA. We will continue to support her efforts because we believe that helping homeless dogs in Romania also helps the community.

"Dana is working relentlessly towards creating an amazing charity to help and protect animals.I have been working with her for the last 6 months and have found her to be totally honest and have high integrity."

 

"The first time I read about ROLDA I knew in my spirit that this organization was the real deal.  Your work to alleviate the suffering of innocent animals struck my heart.  I pray that your work continues and grows.  May God bless you for your compassion and dedication. "

 

Thank you for giving me this experience, I have felt so welcome and taken care of here and Fiorella.. I can never thank you enough for her.

Having a farm, my two kids have grown up around many animals and are big animal lovers like myself. My youngest daughter is a huge dog lover, in particular, also like myself. I believe in what ROLDA is doing and I wanted to be a part of that, so I help out as much as I can, and I encourage others to do the same...in any way they can!" wanted.

Dana: I want to tell you such a big thank you for your kindness. You do such an inspiring job for all those dogs. I’m feeling so blessed to have experienced that in Galati Romania and I’m completely for your cause. Sending your best greetings and take care of you and all those sweet dogs.

Some might say that I have the easiest job at ROLDA because I basically prepare and evaluate them for adoption after they have been rehabilitated, but that's not true. I also see the dogs when they first arrive at ROLDA, all scared, skinny, bruised...it's painful to watch. No job is easy at a charity. It's heartwarming to see a stray dog who's been transformed into an adoptable pet, but it's also painful to watch them continue to spend years here because no one adopts them. Please, choose to adopt.

I enjoyed it very much, to see the dogs, cuddle most of them, it was a little hard to see the big shelter for me, but then I realised how lucky they were to have you and to be there with you! Being with you, means that they will find their forever home very soon, and in the meantime they are safe and taken care of! I’m amazed of all the things you’ve done for the dogs! They are all so happy, sweet and full of love, like they forgot all the pain they went through in the street! And I don’t have enough words to describe how it makes me feel. You give hope and love to these dogs, it’s just amazing…

Die Hunde mit den traurigen Augen Man sieht sie immer wieder vorbei kommen auf dem Internet. Traurige Hunde, dreckig in verkommenen, zugigen, feuchten Verschlägen. Auch sie werden zur Adoption angeboten und auch ich möchte sie am liebsten alle retten, denn sie schauen mit ihren traurigen Augen direkt in mein Herz. Es wäre fantastisch so einen Hund zu retten! Für diesen Hund würde das alles bedeuten aber es wäre ein Tropfen auf den heißen Stein. Nichts wird sich ändern. Ich habe mich dazu entschlossen mich für ROLDA einzusetzen. Einer Organisation die in mehreren Ländern tätig ist und der es auf den ersten Blick richtig gut zu gehen scheint. Warum? Weil Dana eine Vision hat, weil Dana weiter schaut, sich unermüdlich für das große Ganze einsetzt.
Vor mehr als einem Jahrzehnt begann sie mit einem Traum, dem Traum davon um den Straßenhunden in ihrer Region einen sicheren Zufluchtsort bieten zu können. Inzwischen ist ein, für rumänische Verhältnisse, solides Tierheim entstanden. Medische Versorgung wird gewährleistet, alle Hunde können regelmäßig geimpft werden, erhalten täglich Futter und frisches Wasser. Keine Selbstverständlichkeit in rumänischen Zwingern. Dana ist bemüht das Tierheim stetig auszubreiten, anzupassen und zu verbessern. Aber nicht nur das, sie hilft auch den vielen Hunden in und um Galati. Sie hilft auch den Leuten. Sie können ihre Tiere in regelmäßigen Abständen kostenlos kastrieren lassen. Sie betreibt Aufklärungsarbeit. Sie hat vor über zehn Jahren einen kleinen Samen Hoffnung gesät und nun müssen wir dieses zarte Pflänzchen hegen und pflegen, damit es groß und stark werden kann. Adoptiert man einen Hund von ROLDA, hilft man mindestens zweien. Ein Hund bekommt ein Zuhause, ein weiterer kann von der Straße ins sichere Tierheim kommen. Es kommt Geld frei für medizinische Hilfe. Ich glaube Dana hat mittlerweile ganz aufgehört zu schlafen. Denn es ist immer wieder ein harter Kampf. Das Tierheim verschlingt viel Geld und Kraft. Guter, sinnvoller Tierschutz kostet nun einmal Geld. Ich weiß, das nicht jeder einen Hund adoptieren kann und nicht jeder hat das Geld für einen Sponsorhund aber ohne eure Spenden kann auch Dana ihre Arbeit nicht fortsetzen und alles was in den letzten zehn Jahren aufgebaut worden ist wäre verloren. Wirklich jede noch so kleine Spende hilft, denn zusammen sind wir viele und können viel erreichen. Und ja, Australien brennt und vielleicht steht bald die ganze Welt in Brand und wir fragen ständig Geld für rumänische Straßenhunde. Aber ich hoffe doch das viele von euch, die unsere Seite abonniert haben, das getan haben weil sie sich für das Leid der rumänischen Hunde interessieren. Und egal wofür ihr euch entscheidet, wen ihr unterstützen wollt, es ist in erster Linie wichtig, das man etwas macht. Damit diese Welt jeden Tag ein kleines bisschen besser wird.

Jeg har kjent Dana (grunnleggeren av ROLDA);i flere år nå, og hjelper henne bla. med å oversette tekster til norsk. Hun er en fantastisk dame med det største hjertet som fines. Jeg stoler uforbeholdent på hennes dømmekraft og vet at hun har gjort det umulige mulig gang på gang. Verden trenger flere mennesker som henne! Jeg hjelper ROLDA med oversettelse av tekst fra engelsk til norsk fordi de gjør et utrolig viktig arbeid for hjemløse dyr i Romania. Det er ikke alltid man har mulighet til å støtte alle organisasjoner man gjerne skulle hjulpet økonomisk, så det er godt å kunne bidra på andre måter!

I love animals! Plain and simple. I've always felt like I've been given a special gift to understand them and for them to understand me. I love that bond. That friendship. Living in Romania I see so many poor dogs living on the streets with no home and I just wanted to help them. When I found out about ROLDA, I knew this was my chance. ROLDA does amazing work to help animals, but they also care about people. After I lost my home, Dana offered me a home on the premises and I am forever grateful for her. In a way, I am happier because day and night I am always surrounded by the people and animals I care so much about." wanted.

The Pawzup Centre sounds like a fantastic and much-needed initiative that, I'm sure, will make a huge difference to the animals and the local community in Galati. Incorporating a therapy dogs program on top of the outreach, sterilization and rehoming work is a really progressive approach that I hope will lead to a change in attitudes about dogs

"I extend the hand of friendship to you and your workers and wish you success in saving all the dogs that need saving and that you are able through peoples donations and kindness, to give all Romania animals safe shelter, food and security. The days of murdering our beloved animals must come to an end as we educate people and stop money being made from their deaths. Keep this wonderful work going!"