Last month, SPCA International sent a special operations expert to Kuwait to help train staff and organize volunteers at Animal Friends League (AFL), one of the only animal shelters operating in the country.  AFL is run a safe haven and adoption center for cats, dogs, donkeys, baboons and many other animals who find themselves hurt and alone on the cruel streets of Kuwait.

Charlene Ruttle represented SPCA International on a collaborative mission to help AFL and its parent organization, K’S PATH, train a new shelter director, improve volunteer training and streamline shelter operations.   K'S PATH reached out to SPCA International in June 2009 when they hired a dedicated, but inexperienced shelter director.  K'S PATH knew they had the right woman for the job, but they were eager for time-tested procedures and operations to help increase AFL's adoption rates and better leverage the resources of their volunteers.  Ruttle’s expertise in animal rescue and operations made her an excellent resource for the growing shelter.  Ruttle spent time working with local vets to spay and neuter many local strays, participating in trap and release missions and learning about the local animal welfare issues K'S PATH faces every day.   

This project was successful thanks to teamwork and sacrifice.  Ruttle’s airline flights were covered by a sizeable frequent flyer mileage donation from an SPCA International supporter and she was hosted by K’S PATH’s founders in their private residence.    

Back in North America, Ruttle continues to work closely with K’S PATH and AFL to help them develop a volunteer manual and continue to improve standard operating procedures.   SPCA International is honored to lend a helping hand and work with this dedicated group.  Their task is not easy in a country with little animal welfare infrastructure, but their steadfast commitment and determination is making a deep and lasting impact for the animals of their region.