MADAM,

Life for any animal in a war-torn country is a struggle beyond anything we can imagine.  Such is the life of animals in Afghanistan.

For almost ten years Nowzad, founded by former serving Royal Marine Pen Farthing, has given a helping hand to the strays of Afghanistan. Nowzad operates the only official animal shelter in Afghanistan, just outside Kabul where it operates a small clinic headed up by a small team of nationals. It provides a safe sheltered environment for 100 stray dogs and a purpose built cattery for nearly 30 street cats, many of the animals having been rescued by serving troops.

The aim of the charity is to improve the welfare of animals in Afghanistan. A trap, neuter, release scheme has been introduced and to help reduce the incidents of canine rabies, plus an education programme which is working well.

Founder Pen Farthing who heads the charity says: “We have also now helped over 800 soldiers serving in Afghanistan to be re-united back in their home countries with the dogs and cats they rescued from the front lines of Afghanistan and whose devotion and companionship made that soldiers tour of duty that more bearable.

“In addition to the dogs and cats Nowzad have now started to help the working equines in the region along with all other animals in need of care and attention with no voice but ours.”

The lovely people of Monmouthshire have always been very supportive of the charity and have even helped re-unite a dog with its soldier back in UK. On Saturday 27th August there will be a coffee morning held at The Priory adjacent St Mary’s Church with all funds raised going to Nowzad. In addition to an array of scrumptious cakes there will be some beautiful crafts all lovingly made to help Nowzad plus the usual tombola!

We do hope you will join us between 10am and 1pm.

Sian Lloyd

(Friend of Nowzad)