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Speranța Shelter: Redefining Rescue in Romania
12 Mar
Summary
- UK imposed new import rules for Romanian rescue dogs due to Brucella canis.
- Speranța Shelter cares for 500 dogs, focusing on local solutions.
- The shelter prioritizes sterilization and education over exporting dogs.
New UK regulations, effective October 7, 2025, mandate Brucella canis testing for all commercial dog imports from Romania, including rescues. This measure aims to protect public and animal health, as nearly half of recent UK Brucella canis cases are linked to Romanian dogs.
In Bucharest, Romania, the Speranța Shelter provides a 'home of hope' for around 500 dogs. Unlike many, Speranța focuses on local solutions, including sterilization and education, believing exporting dogs doesn't solve Romania's stray population crisis. They have never had a Brucella canis case.
Founded in 1996, Speranța offers comprehensive care, including specialized facilities for paraplegic and senior dogs. Their philosophy emphasizes taking responsibility for the problem at its source, rather than transferring it. Anca Tomescu, who leads the shelter, aims to change attitudes towards stray animals through extensive education programs.
The shelter is entirely donation-funded, with monthly costs exceeding €30,000. They have performed over 100,000 sterilizations and found homes for over 1,000 dogs within Romania, inspiring similar initiatives. Remote adoption and sponsorships help sustain their operations.
