We are happy to introduce you a new member league of OIPA from Libano: REFQ Animal Welfare.

RefQ is a Non Governmental Organization registered in 2017 operating mainly in North Lebanon.

Dedicated to promoting animal welfare through various initiatives, including Rescue, rehabilitation and adoption programs as well as spreading Awareness on compassion towards animals.

RefQ advocates for the rights of animals, working towards the implementation of laws and policies that protect and enhance their well-being.

It is estimated that around 800 dogs are stray dogs in Tripoli (Meetein, Abu Samra, Kobe, Baddawi).

Dogs reproduce at an alarming rate of 1-12 puppies per litter. Female dogs can get pregnant twice a year.Sterilizing 1 female dog can reduce the reproduction rate by up to 50 puppies in its lifetime. Sterilizing male dogs also reduces aggression.

Is their mission to provide safety for all, it is important to create a sanctuary for dogs where they can be safe and the same for the community.

RefQ created a dog shelter in 2018 that has harbored hundreds of dogs since then.

The need for more shelters is essential and ongoing.

The increased dog population in Tripoli and in Lebanon in general is alarming. With more dogs being dumped and the rate at which dogs and cats reproduce, it is not surprising. Worldwide this problem is solved by TNR (Trap, Neuter, Release) which RefQ started in March of 2024. The dog is then tagged with a number in the ear and vaccinated against Rabies.

Since the founding, they have successfully rescued and rehomed over 300 dogs and cats, have built a small rehabilitation center for injured animals that has become a permanent home for over 150 dogs because of the slow rate of adoption in Lebanon and the lack of responsible owners.

The animals rescued were: