For 4 years NGO Charlie and Lola has been active in a feeding project for street cats and street dogs in Egypt from the headquarters in Belgium.
NGO Charlie and Lola offers veterinary care for injured cats and dogs in urgent need of assistance.
NGO Charlie and Lola has been feeding street cats and animals themselves but has also been active in providing other animal lovers and foundations financial support in buying food supplies as the prices of food and especially animal food have gone up several times to a level that animal lovers have are not able to buy food anymore for the groups of stray cats and dogs of their area in the last year.
Of Course, the NGO would love to have a place of its own to nurture injured animals back to a level where they can be adopted but as this requires huge amounts of resources to build and maintain the place, so the NGO has chosen to do what they do best. Offer support in the ways that it can until they have the resources to do this in its own Charlie’s place.
NGO Charlie and Lola sets up feeding stations and daily water stations to help provide these dogs with proper nutrition and care.
Now who are these street dogs and why have they been living on the streets of Egypt is a question for the thousands of tourists visiting the country and to understand this better we like to explain to readers the history of these street dogs and cats…
Baladi Dogs
The ancient Egyptians’ relationship with domesticated cats and dogs dates back to the time of the pharaohs, where these animals were revered and protected due to their divine association with the gods. This sacred bond was reflected in the artwork and architecture of Pharaonic temples, where images of cats and dogs adorned the walls and columns as a testament to their importance in Egyptian society.
The role of cats and dogs in ancient Egypt went beyond mere companionship; they were integral to the daily lives of the people, serving as both pets and symbols of religious and spiritual significance. Cats, in particular, held a special place in Egyptian culture, with the goddess Bastet often depicted as a lioness or house cat, symbolizing protection, fertility, and motherhood. Dogs were also highly regarded, often associated with loyalty, protection, and hunting prowess. Both animals were seen as guardians and companions, with some even being mummified and buried alongside their owners to accompany them in the afterlife.
Recent DNA analysis has shed light on the genetic lineage of modern Egyptian cats and dogs, tracing their ancestry back thousands of years to their ancient counterparts.
The genetic markers found in modern baladi cats and dogs can be linked to those of their ancestors, revealing a deep connection to the animals depicted in ancient inscriptions, statues, and carvings. The cats and dogs you see on the streets of Egypt today are direct descendants of those revered animals from millennia ago, a living link to the past that continues to shape the country’s cultural identity.
The importance of cats and dogs in ancient Egypt extended beyond their symbolic and religious significance; they also played practical roles in society. Cats were valued for their ability to control vermin and protect crops from pests, making them essential in maintaining food supplies and preventing disease. Dogs were used for hunting, herding, and guarding livestock, skills that were crucial for survival in agricultural communities. Both animals were valued for their loyalty and companionship, forming deep bonds with their human counterparts that transcended the physical realm.
Egyptian art and literature are replete with references to cats and dogs, showcasing the enduring impact these animals had on the collective imagination of the ancient Egyptians. From hieroglyphic inscriptions to mythological stories, cats and dogs were portrayed as beloved companions, protectors, and divine beings worthy of admiration and respect. The ancient Egyptians believed that these animals possessed supernatural powers and were capable of bridging the gap between the mortal world and the divine, acting as intermediaries between humans and the gods.
In addition to their practical and symbolic roles, cats and dogs were also subjects of worship and veneration in ancient Egypt. Temples dedicated to Bastet, the cat goddess, were scattered throughout the country, where priests cared for sacred cats and performed rituals in their honour.
Dogs were also given religious significance, with some breeds believed to be incarnations of the jackal-headed god Anubis, who guided souls to the afterlife. The presence of cats and dogs in temples and tombs underscored their importance in both religious ceremonies and everyday life, solidifying their status as cherished companions and reverend creatures.
In terms of physical appearance, Egyptian street dogs can vary greatly in size and colour. While some may have short, brown or beige coats, others can have long, silky fur in various shades. This diversity in appearance is a result of their mixed heritage and the lack of selective breeding that purebred dogs undergo.
One distinguishing feature of Egyptian street dogs is their large, prick ears and pointed noses. These features help them adapt to their surroundings and detect potential dangers.
Their curled tails are another characteristic that sets them apart from other breeds. These physical traits are a result of their natural evolution in the Egyptian environment, where survival instincts play a crucial role in their everyday lives.
The Baladi dogs of Egypt are a true representation of resilience and adaptability.
They have learned to navigate the streets and urban landscapes of Egypt, relying on their instincts and intelligence to survive. While they may not fit the traditional image of a pet dog, they have their own unique charm and beauty that is appreciated by those who understand their background and history.
One of the challenges facing Egyptian street dogs is the stigma attached to them by society. Many people view them as dirty, aggressive, or dangerous, leading to negative perceptions and mistreatment. However, with education and awareness, more people are learning to appreciate the value of these dogs and the important role they play in the ecosystem.
These street dogs or Baladi dogs often have to scavenge for food and shelter, leading to them being labelled as pests by some members of the community. However, these dogs are just trying to survive in an environment that can be harsh and unforgiving. One of the reasons why Egyptian street dogs tend to be thin is because they don’t have a consistent food source. Many of them rely on scraps from garbage bins or leftovers from local markets. This diet is not always nutritious, leading to malnourishment and health issues.
Despite their tough exterior, Egyptian street dogs can be incredibly loyal and loving towards those who show them kindness. They have a strong sense of survival instincts, which can make them wary of strangers, but with time and patience, they can form strong bonds with humans. Many people have shared heartwarming stories of Egyptian street dogs rescuing and protecting their families, showcasing their innate loyalty and protective nature.
Rescue organizations and animal shelters have played a crucial role in helping to protect and care for Egyptian street dogs. By providing medical treatment, spaying and neutering services, and adoption programs, they are working to improve the lives of these dogs and reduce the population of strays on the streets.
Overall, Egyptian street dogs are a unique and resilient breed that deserves recognition and respect. They have survived against all odds in a challenging environment, showcasing their strength, intelligence, and loyalty.
By understanding and appreciating their history and heritage, we can help ensure a brighter future for these special dogs.
Street Cats of Eypt
Cats have always been an integral part of Egyptian culture and society. From ancient times to the present day, cats have been revered as sacred animals, valued for their ability to hunt pests such as mice and rats, and beloved as pets by millions of Egyptians.
However, there is a darker side to the relationship between cats and humans in Egypt. While many cats enjoy loving homes and are well cared for, there is a large population of street cats that struggle to survive in the harsh urban environment.
In Egypt, street cats can be found in almost every neighbourhood, from the bustling streets of Cairo to the quiet alleyways of Luxor. These cats are often abandoned pets, born to feral mothers, or simply strays who have never known a home. They face myriad challenges in their day-to-day lives, including hunger, disease, and violence from humans and other animals.
One of the biggest threats to street cats in Egypt is overpopulation. Without access to spaying and neutering services, cats reproduce at an alarming rate, leading to an ever-growing population of homeless felines. This can result in increased competition for resources, such as food and shelter, as well as the spread of diseases among the cat population.
Many street cats in Egypt also suffer from malnutrition, as they rely on scraps of food scavenged from garbage cans or leftovers from kind-hearted individuals. This can lead to a host of health problems, including skin conditions, parasites, and a weakened immune system.
In addition to physical challenges, street cats in Egypt also face discrimination and abuse from humans. Some people view cats as pests or carriers of disease, leading them to mistreat or even kill cats in the streets. Others simply ignore the plight of street cats, seeing them as a part of the urban landscape that is not worth paying attention to.
Despite these challenges, there are individuals and organizations in Egypt working tirelessly to improve the lives of street cats. Animal rights activists and volunteers set up feeding stations, trap-neuter-release programs, and emergency medical care for injured cats. They also advocate for better laws and regulations to protect animals from abuse and neglect.
In conclusion, street cats face numerous challenges, including overpopulation, malnutrition, and abuse. However, there are dedicated individuals and organizations working to improve the lives of these vulnerable animals. Through increased awareness, advocacy, and support, we can create a more compassionate society where all cats are valued and cherished.
The NGO cannot operate and keep continuing these feeding programs and emergency medical care without the financial support of our sales on the web shop and through donations. Therefore, conscious shopping from our web shop when in need of articles in daily life or booking vacation experiences through the NGO web shop is a conscious act in helping these animals in huge need of assistance in order to survive and lead better lives.