Causes Of Choice: Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (wfft.org), Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (sheldrick wildlifetrust.org), Wolf Conservation Center (nywolf.org), Big Life Foundation (biglife.org), Pacific Marine Mammal Center (pacific mmc.org), International Fund for Animal Welfare (ifaw.org), Marley’s Mutts Pawsitive Change Program (marleysmutts.org) and Much Love Animal Rescue (muchlove.org)
What drew you to these particular organizations? “These are all programs that are important to me. It ranges from global animal welfare groups, to regional specific animal rescues, from land to sea. I’ve spent years advocating and supporting these causes, and these are some of my favorite organizations.”
Why has animal treatment and advocacy been so important to you? “I grew up feeling very connected to nature and animals. I think it’s important to advocate and be a voice for the voiceless, especially when it comes to habitat destruction and the poaching of endangered animals.”
When it comes to Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand, you actually traveled to Thailand, alone, in order to advance the cause. “It changed my life. Being aware of animal welfare issues just by reading it is one thing but when you see first-hand the issues these rescue and rehabilitation organizations are dealing with, it really pulls the blindfold off. There are so many challenges facing wildlife conservation, and being able to help in a hands-on way is invaluable — and really makes it that much more personal.”
When it comes to giving neglected animals a safe and happy home, what message do you have for folks who are on the brink of adopting a pet but are still a little wary? “Don’t adopt on a whim. You are taking on a lifelong commitment to that animal. Through the medical issues and the apartment moves and everything else, you have a responsibility to take care of that animal and make them a part of your family. Think it through — and when you do, enjoy the unconditional love. Rescue animals rescue us.”
