Earlier this year, I had the privilege of travelling to the beautiful island of Sri Lanka. My experience there was similar to that of Kim Cooling, the founder of Animal SOS, whose story is shared in the video above. While I absolutely loved the country and its culture, I was deeply shocked by the level of animal suffering I encountered—just as Kim was. Everywhere I turned, I saw animals in pain, having seizures from the heat, limps turned the wrong way and it was gut-wrenching.

Having travelled extensively, especially throughout Southeast Asia, I have encountered the plight of stray animals before, but nothing quite like what I witnessed in Sri Lanka.

During my time there, my heart went out to the strays, and I had the opportunity to work closely with Animal SOS to help save a small puppy that had been abandoned at a construction site near my accommodation (photos shown >>).

Like Kim, I was torn—leaving Sri Lanka was incredibly difficult. The suffering was so palpable, yet I’ve always been a deep lover of animals, and I refuse to turn a blind eye. The animals in Sri Lanka touched my soul, and even though I'm far away now, I remain determined to be their voice and do whatever I can to help.

Animal SOS is home to over 2,500 dogs and cats, providing veterinary care and refuge for sick and disabled strays. Unfortunately, the organisation is on the brink of closure, and their efforts need all the support they can get.

If you are also moved by what they do, I encourage you to donate. Even the smallest contribution can make a world of difference for these animals.