Securing the Future for Stray Animals: Funding Strategies for Animal Rescue and Adoption in the Bicol Region

Aim:In addressing financial gaps and operational constraints, this study investigated the status of three (3) animal shelters, namely: Albay Animal Rescue and Adoption (AARA), Tabaco Animal Rescue and Adoption (TAARA), and Sorsogon Animal Rescue and Adoption (SARA).The objectives are as follows: (1) to determine the status of animal shelters in the provinces of Albay and Sorsogon, along with their Vision, Mission, Goals and Objectives (VMGO), manpower capability, facilities, budget, activities, and accomplishments; (2) to analyze the funding strategies of the local animal shelters in terms of alignment to VMGO, Compensation, MOOE (maintenance and other operating expenses), stakeholder support, and risk management; (3) to identify the challenges encountered by the participants in the animal shelters along with the above-mentioned variables; and (4) to propose a Funding Strategy Framework to sustain animal rescue and adoption in the Bicol region.Methodology: Data were collected following a qualitative study design that included semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis involving key participants from the three (3) animal welfare organizations, such as heads, volunteers, and rescuers.Results: The findings show the status of animal shelters as non-profit organizations with clear vision, mission, goals and objectives (VMGO); that there is no compensation for their volunteers; they do not have a stable budget for their operations; no proper facilities for the rescues; and they have organized activities such as fundraising events, rescue operation, and adoption drives.The findings likewise show that while there was alignment with their VMGO and the shelter's funding strategies, and they were able to organize marketing and creative fundraising activities, these have been insufficient to render operations sustainable; Financial constraints, Veterinary care and food supply were found to be the most significant expenses, reliance on volunteers, lack of institutional support, and risk management are among the challenges.Conclusion: Despite their commitment to animal welfare, AARA, TAARA, and SARA struggle with financial instability, reliance on inconsistent donations, lack of structured support, and risk management strategy, culminating in AARA's closure due to high veterinary debts and insufficient manpower.