A New Beginning for Vulnerable Animals
On 13 June 2026, a new chapter for animal welfare in Morocco began with the inauguration of a shelter for stray dogs and cats in Aïn Jouhara, near Tiflet.
The initiative was made possible through the commitment of OIPA Representative for Morocco, Zahra Al Amari, together with lawyer Anouar Hajji, who share a common vision: to provide protection, care and dignity to animals that have spent much of their lives struggling to survive on the streets.
The shelter was created as a safe haven for animals in need and as a practical response to the growing challenges associated with stray animal populations.
From the Streets to Safety
Many of the animals now living at the shelter were previously exposed to hunger, disease, extreme weather conditions and the constant dangers of road traffic.
Today, they have access to regular food, clean water, veterinary care and a secure environment where they can recover and live with dignity.
The shelter currently provides care for approximately 150 dogs and 20 cats, offering them a second chance and demonstrating that compassionate, community-driven solutions can make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable animals.
A Community Celebration
The inauguration brought together members of the local community, families, volunteers and animal welfare supporters in a day marked by hope and solidarity.
Children and young participants played a special role in the event by creating colourful artworks that were displayed throughout the shelter, symbolising a future built on compassion and respect for animals. Their participation highlighted the importance of education and awareness in fostering a culture of empathy towards all living beings.
As part of the celebration, certificates of participation were awarded to the young participants in recognition of their creativity, commitment and contribution to promoting animal welfare values within their community.
Addressing a Wider Challenge
The issue of stray animals remains a significant challenge in many parts of Morocco. Beyond concerns related to animal welfare, it is closely connected to public health, responsible population management and community well-being.
Projects such as this shelter demonstrate that sustainable solutions can be achieved through cooperation between local communities, animal welfare advocates and institutions. Providing immediate care to animals in need is essential, but long-term progress also requires education, responsible ownership, sterilisation programmes and increased public awareness.
Veterinarians and Animal Welfare Professionals Needed
As the shelter continues to grow and provide care for an increasing number of animals, access to veterinary expertise remains one of its most important needs.
OIPA Morocco is currently seeking veterinarians, veterinary technicians, veterinary nurses and animal health professionals interested in supporting future animal welfare initiatives, including sterilisation campaigns, veterinary outreach activities, preventive healthcare programmes and capacity-building efforts.
Professional support can make a significant difference in improving animal welfare standards and helping develop sustainable, long-term solutions for stray animal management.
If you are interested in collaborating, sharing expertise or supporting future veterinary initiatives in Morocco, we would be pleased to hear from you.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Caring for more than 170 animals requires continuous resources, including food, veterinary treatments, medicines, shelter maintenance and daily care.
If you would like to support this important initiative, you can contribute through a donation and help provide a safer future for stray animals in Morocco.
When making a donation please specify- Morocco Animal Shelter
Veterinary Needed in Morocco !
OIPA Morocco is currently seeking veterinarians, veterinary technicians, veterinary nurses and animal health professionals from around the world who would like to support animal welfare initiatives in Morocco.
Whether you are interested in volunteering your expertise, providing technical support or collaborating on future projects, your contribution can make a meaningful difference.
To express your interest or learn more, please contact:
international@oipa.org