Even the small things...

As beautiful as Bali is, it has it's setbacks. At BAWA, there are limited resources. We are definitely spoiled being so used to having what seems like an endless amount of paper towels, wide variety of proper disinfectants and medicines..and if run out, we can usually always get it the next day. For example, the best antibiotic to treat pneumonia, like a broad spectrum..isnt available so instead must take a risk and use one that might cause issues with the puppy's cartilage growth in the future...But they must use what they have. It is not the fault of BAWA, as they do the best of what they can with very little. I admire that in so many ways...

With a ton of puppies and caged dogs and cats making messes in their little areas, it is hard to keep up with all the cleaning. Many towels are used as improvisions to paper towels and thus it being harder to keep up with the laundry. The staff at BAWA do all what they can, but it is obvious that volunteers are highly needed. Not just for giving attention and love to the animals but to get down and dirty. It might not be glamourous to be mopping up urine or washing dishes, but it's super important. As you might think this would be a popular place to volunteer (being Bali and all), there actually aren't enough volunteers that come around...

Ana is from Germany and has been volunteering at BAWA for 3 weeks and plans on staying for another 3.  We all quickly became friends.

Not only are we helping the vets with treatments and learning their techniques and knowledge, but we are assisting with the little things that, as a whole, make a huge difference at the shelter. From scrubbing grimy mop buckets to giving subcutaneous fluids to a sick kitten, it all makes an positive impact of the wellbeing of the animals. We went ahead and bought some items that we felt they needed such as floor cleaner, sponges, and canned dog food. And while we are there, try to organize and disinfect things that probably haven't been tended to for some time. Even though at the end of the day we are exhausted...from the scorching humid heat and sun...it still feels good.

One of the vets treating a local's dog's abscess.