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Seven and a Half Thousand Hearts, Waiting

Every morning at our shelter in Tashkent begins the same way: with barking. It isn't just noise. It's a chorus of more than 7,500 voices. Some are calling for us, some are asking for food, and some just want to be noticed.

Most of these dogs once knew what a home was. Some were abandoned when they grew too big or fell ill. Others were found on highways, at construction sites and in back alleys, hungry, freezing and frightened. None of them chose this life. None of it was their fault.

Today our shelter is home to 7,500 dogs, and every one of them needs the same things: food, warmth, medical care and a little love.

What we face every day:

• Tons of food are consumed every month, and our supplies run out faster than we can replenish them.

• Medicine, vaccinations, sterilization and surgeries: without them, the pack can't survive.

• In winter we need insulated kennels, bedding and heating, or puppies and old dogs won't make it through the cold.

• Enclosure repairs, water, electricity and wages for the people who care for the animals.

We do everything we can, but one shelter cannot carry 7,500 lives alone. We need you.

What your help means:

• 4 USD feeds dozens of dogs for a day.

• 15 USD vaccinates several animals.

• 40 USD helps pay for treatment for an injured or sick dog.

• Any amount gives one more day of life to those who depend on us.

You don't have to be wealthy to change someone's fate. All it takes is one decision: not to walk past.

One day, a dog you helped save will meet you at the gate, wagging its tail as if you were the dearest person in the world. And you will be.

Help us. Every dog deserves a chance.