Thanks to OIPA’s initial financial support, the first sterilization procedures have already been carried out in Ernei and surrounding areas. However, the available funds are still insufficient, and many stray and owned dogs urgently need our help.
In June 2026, OIPA Romania launched the campaign “Sterilization, Not Euthanasia: Emergency Appeal for Romania” to protect dogs in Ernei and the surrounding areas of Mureș County.
The initiative, coordinated by the OIPA Representative for Romania in collaboration with the City Hall of Ernei, Blue Paws Association and Second Life Association, aims to prevent unwanted births and reduce the number of dogs exposed to abandonment, capture, shelter confinement and possible euthanasia.
Thanks to the initial funds made available by OIPA, the local team has already been able to carry out the first sterilization procedures.
These initial interventions represent an important and concrete result. Every sterilized dog means fewer unwanted litters, fewer puppies born into vulnerable conditions and fewer animals at risk of ending up abandoned or on the streets.
However, this is only the beginning.
The first sterilization procedures have been carried out in Ernei and surrounding areas thanks to OIPA’s initial support.
Many Dogs Are Still Waiting
The need across the area remains far greater than the resources currently available.
Many stray dogs still need to be safely reached, transported, sterilized and monitored during their recovery. At the same time, some families in the area are unable to afford the veterinary costs required to sterilize their dogs.
Supporting these families is also an essential part of preventing future straying. Without access to affordable sterilization services, unwanted litters may be born, families may struggle to care for the puppies and some animals may ultimately be abandoned.
By helping both stray dogs and dogs belonging to families experiencing financial hardship, the campaign addresses the problem at its source.
The first dogs have been helped. Many more are still waiting
Why Continued Action Is Urgently Needed
As highlighted in OIPA’s original appeal, stray dogs in the area face the risk of capture, transfer to public shelters and possible euthanasia after the legal holding period.
Without preventive action, uncontrolled reproduction will continue to place more animals at risk. Every new litter born into already difficult circumstances adds pressure to local communities, animal welfare organizations and shelters.
Sterilization alone cannot solve the entire problem of stray dog overpopulation. However, together with responsible ownership, education and adoption, it is one of the most humane, effective and sustainable tools available.
The first procedures demonstrate that the local team is ready and that the campaign can produce tangible results. What is now urgently needed is sufficient funding to continue.
How Your Donation Will Help
Every contribution will support the practical and veterinary costs required to reach and assist more dogs, including:
- sterilization procedures performed by veterinary professionals;
- medication and medical supplies;
- safe capture and transportation of stray dogs;
- post-operative monitoring and care;
- field organization and logistical costs.
Even a small donation can contribute to the next procedure and help prevent future abandonment and suffering.
The Campaign Has Begun — Help Us Continue
OIPA’s initial support has allowed the campaign to take its first concrete steps. But these first interventions must be the beginning, not the end.
The local team and veterinary professionals are ready to continue. With your help, we can reach more stray dogs, support families who cannot afford sterilization and prevent more animals from being born into abandonment and insecurity.
