In Montreal, Oli brings compassion to connect two worlds and make a big difference for abandoned animals. Her story is one of selflessness, determination, and a deep love for creatures in need, showing how individual efforts create lasting change.

Step into the world of compassion personified – meet Oli, an extraordinary individual whose altruistic spirit knows no bounds. Originally from Albania, Oli now calls Montreal, Canada, home. Despite the geographical distance, she has extended her benevolence back to Shkodra, Albania, where she has established a shelter dedicated to the well-being of abandoned dogs and cats. Oli’s impact reaches far beyond borders, and her mission has not only earned her local recognition but has also manifested in the heartfelt relocation of animals with special needs from Albania to the welcoming arms of Canada.

Profile

Oli’s journey is a testament to unwavering dedication and a profound love for animals in need. In the heart of bustling Montreal, she seamlessly integrates her life in a cosmopolitan city with a heartfelt mission to provide love and care to abandoned animals in Shkodra. Through her shelter, Oli extends a lifeline to countless dogs and cats, offering them not only refuge but also a renewed opportunity for a life filled with warmth and compassion. Her commitment transcends borders, demonstrating that compassion knows no geographical limits.

Community Impact

Oli’s altruistic endeavors have not only made her a well-known figure in Montreal but have also reverberated across the streets of Shkodra. Her shelter is not merely a haven for animals; it serves as a beacon, inspiring the local community to actively participate in this noble cause. Oli engages with citizens, sparking a collective effort to contribute to her humanitarian mission and create a tangible, positive impact on the lives of abandoned animals. Her influence extends beyond the walls of her shelter, fostering a sense of responsibility and compassion within the hearts of those around her.

In the dynamic cityscape of Montreal, Oli stands tall as a symbol of compassion, weaving connections across continents to significantly influence the lives of abandoned animals. Her story is a tapestry of selflessness, determination, and an enduring love for creatures in need. Oli emerges not just as an individual but as an emblematic figure, showcasing how singular efforts, rooted in empathy, can bring about enduring and transformative change, transcending borders and leaving an indelible mark on the world.

How did your journey in animal welfare begin, and what inspired you to establish a shelter in Shkodra, Albania, while residing in Montreal, Canada?

Initially, I want to express my gratitude for this chance to talk about the work we do at Animals Need Me with WHOMAN.

Our organization was founded eleven years ago in the hope of rescuing and rehabilitating stray dogs and cats in Shkoder, Albania. Despite my relocation to Canada in 2017, I continue to bear a significant amount of responsibility, as the demands in our country are immense. Every single day, countless animals are abandoned without any consequences. The laws in place to prevent this are not being upheld, and the public is not being properly educated on how to responsibly care for their pets. Unfortunately, adoption rates remain low, and an alarming 58 out of 61 municipalities in Albania do not have sterilization projects in place, which is the only humane way to control stray pets’ population.

Under these circumstances, I found myself unable to simply walk away. The significance of this mission is far too great to simply give up without a fight.

Managing a shelter from a distance must present unique challenges. Can you share insights into how you overcome the geographical barrier to ensure the well-being of the animals in Shkodra?

It’s indeed a challenge, but technology has been a great ally. Regular video calls with the local team, implementing robust processes, and having a trustworthy on-site manager have been crucial. It’s about building a strong support system that ensures the animals receive the care they deserve, even from afar.

Residing on a different continent necessitates that I handle tasks that cannot be executed in the field, which encompasses activities such as dispatch, communications, website management, and submitting applications for sizable spay/neuter campaigns and other significant endeavors. To enhance our service to animals in need, I participate in fundraising efforts, attend conferences, and enroll in courses. Devotion to Animals Need Me is a constant presence in my life, requiring me to commit 10-12 hours every day, all year round.

Weekends and evenings are dedicated to overseeing shelter operations, while weekdays are focused on my work in Montreal. Balancing city life and shelter responsibilities is demanding, but it’s a labor of love. Even though I have a full-time job at the Red Cross and am the mother of one child and ten animals to look after at home, this responsibility is an integral part of my being and I carry it with me everywhere. It’s a juggling act, but the joy I get from helping these animals makes it all worthwhile. However, dealing with a large volume of animal abandonment, abuse, or disease cases takes a toll on my physical and emotional wellbeing, leading to fatigue and anxiety.

Are you also involved with animal organizations in Canada?

The animal welfare scene in Canada differs from that of Albania. While animal rights organizations in Albania are relatively young, about 10-15 years old, the Montreal SPCA boasts a history of over 154 years. This establishment is particularly inspiring to me due to their compassionate and professional handling of the stray animal crisis. My son and I have been fortunate enough to act as foster parents for 13 cats from the Montreal SPCA in the past two years.

Another organization that I admire, and I am involved with, is Sauvetage Animal Rescue, which does technical rescues of all kinds of animals that might be trapped somewhere. They taught me how to give animals first aid and I participated in 2 rescue missions to save 2 baby squirrels and 2 baby rabbits.

Unfortunately, I cannot do more, as I am afraid of burning out.

How does your shelter in Shkodra operate, and how does it contribute to the care of street animals?

Animals Need Me aims to create a society where no animal is abandoned, neglected, or mistreated. We operate in a full cycle by rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming stray pets, supported by volunteers, staff and partnerships with other animal welfare groups. Our core values of compassion, dedication, collaboration, advocacy, and empowerment guide our work. We believe in treating every animal with kindness and respect and advocate for responsible ownership and policies that support animal welfare.

In 11 years, Animals Need Me has sterilized more than 4000 dogs and cats and provided home for at least 1500 of them. There are currently 230 animals under our care in 2 shelters and foster families. We also collaborate with the municipality of Shkodra.

With the kind support of foreign animal foundations, we are also trying to tackle the issue of stray animals in a legal perspective as well as improve our education approach.

In 2023, we filed 20 criminal complaints against individuals or institutions that have abused or killed animals, and we are also working with 50 schools in our city to deliver animal education sessions.

Our staff and volunteers are truly inspiring and admirable people.

Looking ahead, do you have any plans or aspirations for the future of your shelter and its impact on animal welfare in Shkodra?

Expansion is on the horizon. I aspire to create a model shelter that not only provides sanctuary but also educates and inspires others globally. The dream is to set new standards for animal welfare, transcending borders and making a lasting impact on the lives of animals everywhere.

Your shelter not only provides a safe haven for animals but also inspires the local community. How do you engage with citizens, and what kind of support have you received from the community?

Engaging with the community involves workshops, events, and collaborations with local businesses. The support has been overwhelming — from volunteer contributions to sponsorships. Our organization was able to be operational thanks mainly to the support of the Albanian diaspora, seasonal tourists and the three small animal protection organizations. Every person, whether in Albania or elsewhere in the world, has the power to contribute in one way or another to the problem of stray animals. This can be done through donations, volunteering, fostering, rescuing, adopting, fundraising, raising awareness, or even lobbying local government.

We are currently looking for funding or partnerships to expand our sterilization campaigns, enhance our awareness and education efforts, hire additional staff, improve our shelter and medical service, lobby the Albanian government and municipalities for a long-term strategy.

It’s heartening to see the community rally behind a cause that’s dear to my heart.

Have you encountered any special or emotional stories during the care of a street animal

Since my childhood, my life has been filled with memories and moments shared with animals. Many of these experiences have been emotional, as animals possess a purity and innocence that is truly special. They are also great teachers if one cares enough to pay attention. My heart has broken countless times witnessing neglect, abuse, misery, and death. However, it also found healing and solace when humanity prevailed. My favorite rescue story is about Kiara, a dog who lived with our family for 10 years.

I found her on a tormented day when I was in my eighth month of pregnancy. The doctor had just told me to stop working immediately and rest in bed, as I was at risk of an early birth. Kiara’s puppies had been thrown into the garbage bin by irresponsible people, and she was crying and barking at everyone. I took them, showing her that I meant no harm, and tried to build a small shelter in my neighborhood. Putting things into perspective can provide people with motivation. When you see someone, whether it be a person or an animal, suffering more than you, it can give you strength and inspire you to help them.

Everyday I would feed her, protect the babies, persuade people around not to remove them. The babies grew and I was able to find loving families. Since that day, Kiara climbed 6 floors to sleep at our door. She learned to trust me, and I learned what her needs were. When an animal trusts you, you do everything in your power not to break that trust. It is a bit the story of the Fox and the Little Prince by Antoine de St-Exupéry.

Kiara later traveled to Canada with us. She lived a long happy life in our family and was 16 years old when she passed. We miss her terribly. In her honor and thousands of animals that I have crossed paths with, I continue my commitment in rescuing and rehabilitating the most vulnerable ones.

What advice do you have for those who are interested in helping in the care and protection of street animals?

Start small, collaborate with local communities, and leverage technology. Building a reliable team on-site is crucial, and remember, even small actions can create significant change. Passion and determination can overcome any distance.

Even though many people in our entourage might not understand it at first, this cause is noble and right. Protecting innocent creatures from harm and making efforts to give them a dignified life is admirable, especially when the whole society has failed them. What we need is a cultural shift in our country and this doesn’t happen overnight. It will require decades.

Regardless of your skills, interests, or availability, it’s crucial that you make an effort to assist animals in any way possible. The world is in desperate need of compassionate individuals who can contribute to healing and protecting animals. You can start by leaving a bowl of food and water for your community dogs and cats, you can foster one animal, volunteer at your local shelter, educate your peers, etc.

Don’t underestimate your power.

Looking forward, my dream is not just a shelter but a sanctuary of hope, where every animal, regardless of origin, finds solace and a chance for a brighter tomorrow. Together, let’s continue to pen a story of empathy, resilience, and a world where every pawprint leaves an indelible mark on our shared humanity. Each animal I’ve helped rescue, each wagging tail, and each purr of contentment is a thread that weaves a story of compassion.

Together, we’re creating a narrative where distance is just a temporary hurdle, and love knows no boundaries.

As we wrap up this enjoyable conversation with Oli Pero, she concludes with this statement::

My journey is a reminder that with determination, community support, and a shared passion for animal welfare, we can shape a future where every creature, regardless of location, has the chance to experience kindness, care, and the warmth of a loving home.