Behind the Scenes at CARE: Challenges & Our Wish List

Running the Victoria Falls Community Animal Health & Welfare Centre (CARE) is as rewarding as it is demanding. Every day, our team faces challenges that test our creativity and resilience. Here’s a look behind the scenes at what it takes to keep CARE running—and how you can help us continue this vital work.

Critical Challenges

  • Water Scarcity: Despite being close to the Zambezi River, our clinic struggles with a reliable water supply. Municipal water arrives as rarely as once every three weeks, making daily operations and animal care extremely difficult.
  • Equipment Needs: Essential veterinary equipment like an anaesthetic machine, portable X-ray, orthopaedic kits, and surgical lights are urgently needed. Many procedures are only possible thanks to the ingenuity of our team, but proper equipment would save more lives and improve outcomes.
  • Infrastructure Gaps: We need a canopy for our vehicle to safely transport animals and equipment, a borehole for water security, and a dedicated cattery to house cats and kittens in the long term.
  • Welfare Inspector: There’s an urgent need for a licensed animal welfare inspector. This role is critical for investigating cruelty cases, educating the community, and ensuring animals are protected under the law. Funding and a vehicle for this position remain out of reach.

How You Can Help

  • Donate: Financial support goes directly to equipment, infrastructure, and staff needs. Even small contributions make a big difference.
  • Sponsor Equipment: Help us purchase specific items from our wish list—contact us to find out what’s most urgent.
  • Spread the Word: Sharing CARE’s story helps us reach new supporters and advocates.

Our Wish List Highlights

  • Anaesthetic machine ($6,000)
  • Portable X-ray machine ($6,000)
  • Borehole for water supply ($15,000)
  • Cattery facility ($1,000)
  • Welfare Inspector salary and vehicle ($1,200/month; $15,000 for vehicle)

Every donation, share, or kind word helps us overcome obstacles and continue caring for animals and the community. Thank you for standing with CARE!

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