there for animals.

The plan is for the Brasil Pets association and the ASSOCIACAO INSTITUTO PROTECAO E ACAO run by Paulinha Silva to use the plot which has been given to us to build an animal sanctuary which is in keeping with nature. Animal facilities should be built using as little concrete as possible. The walls and enclosures should be made from wood and the roofs should be made from straw. Buildings constructed in this way provide shade in the summer and conserve warmth in the winter. Because we’re in a tropical climate with temperatures between 12 and 40°C, we don’t need heating or air-conditioning except for the facilities where the animals are actually housed. For hygiene reasons the floors of the cat and dog housing are made of ceramic tiles; this makes sure that the facilities for the animals being cared for can be kept bacteria and germ-free. The three houses, parts of which have fallen into a state of severe disrepair, are being renovated, with two being converted into accommodation for the carers and one into a quarantine and pet centre. The site needs to be reconnected to the electricity supply, and should use solar energy where possible. Water will be provided from existing wells on site. Since the plot is on a slope, the animal shelters will be located on the edge of the site and designed in a stepped form. This means that there will be enough space in the middle of the new sanctuary for the animals to run free. Despite the sloping ground it may one day also be possible to admit horses, cows or other large stray animals found on the street. The aim is to be able to look after around 800 stray dogs, 200 cats and some large livestock, and give them a roof over their heads.
A total of CHF 100,000 will be needed to build the new shelter, which will be divided in three stages:

1. Stage: CHF 20 000 for planning and permits


2. Stage: CHF 40 000 for the construction of buildings and installations


3. Stage: CHF 40 000 for equipping the facilities with medical equipment