STORY: Sanctuary rescues over 1,000 stray animals in Myanmar
SHOOTING TIME: Jan. 18, 2025
DATELINE: Jan. 20, 2025
LENGTH: 00:03:32
LOCATION: YANGON, Myanmar
CATEGORY: SOCIETY

SHOTLIST:
1. various of the Golden Heart disabled animals rescue shelter

STORYLINE:

The Golden Heart disabled animals rescue shelter, founded in January 2014 by Hnin Si Myint, is located on the outskirts of Yangon, Myanmar.
   
The shelter is home to 850 dogs, 150 cats, 13 cows, and 10 goats rescued from disturbing situations including car accidents, knife attacks, and cruel acts involving hot water or acid.
   
"We are dedicated to healing not just their bodies but also their spirits, providing them with care and love they deserve," said Hnin Si Myint.

More than 30 employees work to provide regular cleaning and two nutritious meals per day. The shelter's monthly food expenditure amounts to approximately 60 million kyats (about 28,571 U.S. dollars), said Hnin Si Myint.
   
The founder says that her shelter also prioritizes medical services such as neutering procedures, treatment for skin diseases, cancer care, and vaccination against rabies and other infectious diseases.
    
The shelter thrives thanks to the dedication and compassion of its staff and donors, who play a crucial role in ensuring smooth operations.
   
Having worked at the shelter for nearly seven years, Wai Lin Phyo handles a wide range of responsibilities including cleaning, feeding, and assisting with vaccinations. Given hazards such as the risk of being bitten by newly arrived dogs, the 22-year-old has to remain vigilant when treating and caring for the animals.
    
Most of the dogs arrive with serious diseases and severe conditions such as paralysis. The dedicated team works tirelessly to save these animals from life-threatening situations, said Wai Lin Phyo.
   
Witnessing their recovery is a rewarding experience and seeing them regain strength and improve in condition brings immense joy and fulfillment, he added.
   
San Taw Moe, a former taxi driver, joined the shelter about four years ago. He was initially inspired by his frequent trips to transport injured animals to the hospital -- a task other drivers often refused due to the smell.
   
"Working here as a dedicated team member, it is a win-win situation," he explained. "I can earn a living while performing good deeds."
   
Golden Heart has provided rabies vaccinations at nearby streets and monasteries in order to prevent conflict and reduce death or injury from the disease. The shelter also focuses on neutering in order to control the stray population and fight the spread of rabies.
  
Widespread participation in rabies vaccination and neutering initiatives can pave the way for a more compassionate and balanced world, said founder Hnin Si Myint.

Xinhua News Agency correspondents reporting from Yangon, Myanmar.
(XHTV)