Zehra Güvenir, a veterinary doctor who came from Kocaeli with our European Solidarity Corps project, returned to her home after a two-month of volunteering service. Zehra took on the care of sick, weak, disabled and orphaned cats and dogs in the Sinop and Gerze shelters and the ones under our protection.

Throughout her two-month volunteering in Sinop, Zehra focused on improving the quality of life for stray animals. She regularly fed and cleaned the litter boxes for approximately 100 cats in the village. This allowed her to meet their basic needs and closely monitor their health. When she noticed sick cats, she brought them home and, as a veterinarian, took on their treatment. During this process, she specifically addressed common issues like infections and injuries.

At the same time, she participated in spay/neuter operations at the local shelter. She gave special attention to kittens in need of care, nursing them and doing everything I could to help them survive. This process was both physically and emotionally demanding but incredibly fulfilling for Zehra.

During this two-month period, she made a tangible and positive impact on the stray cat population in Sinop. Thanks to regular feeding and cleaning, there was a noticeable improvement in the general health of the village cats. The risks of hunger and disease decreased, which helped them lead longer and healthier lives.

The immediate medical intervention she provided for sick cats saved many lives. The recovery and return to life of treated cats were the greatest proof of her efforts. Through the spay/neuter efforts at the shelter, she contributed to controlling uncontrolled breeding in the region, which will reduce the number of future stray animals. This was an important step towards ensuring more sustainable animal welfare in the long term. Most importantly, the special attention she showed to needy and young kittens allowed them to survive and grow healthily. Her work not only improved the quality of life for animals but also raised local awareness, making a small but significant impact on animal love and responsibility.

Within the activity, Zehra developed herself in so many areas. She incredibly developed her flexibility and problem-solving skills. Being the only Turkish in the group gave her the opportunity to interact with people from different cultures and form strong bonds. As a veterinarian, this volunteering enriched her practical experience in the field. Working with limited resources allowed her to utilize her creativity and knowledge to the fullest. Specifically, sheI learned how to intervene more effectively with animals in challenging conditions. The spay/neuter operations at the shelter and the treatment of sick animals in the village further solidified her professional skills. Now she feels more competent in making quick decisions and responding to emergencies.

Thanks to Zehra, many of our friends regained their health and received better care. We would like to thank Zehra for all her efforts for our stray friends.