By Sara Al-Awadhi — Originally published in Streets Times, Issue 168

I was lucky enough to come across such superheroes when I did, and as much as I always wish there was more I could do for the animals, I try to remind myself that the least amount of help is most appreciated. KareQ8 also helps people find their lost pets, helps people who can no longer keep their pets to find a new home, and takes care of spaying/neutering cats and dogs even if they were not KareQ8’s rescues.

KareQ8 does not hand over any of their cats or dogs to just anyone merely because they are interested — not in a stingy way, but as a cautious and protective manner. One of KareQ8’s most fundamental principles is spaying/neutering the animal about to be adopted or fostered, and doing the same for any other pets potential adopters already have at home. That’s the one and only cost — because animals are not for sale.

Something else the group is all about would be mercy. After all, it is how we deal with and treat other parts of nature — its animals, land, air and water — that makes us human. Personally, nothing tops the sight of an adult holding a little kid’s hand and teaching them to understand and care for a cat, a dog, or any creature.

If you are interested, there are plenty of ways to get involved. KareQ8 organizes Adoption Days at Petzone (@Petzone1) in Al Rai, near The Avenues:

• Tuesdays — 4:00 to 9:00 pm
• Fridays — 1:00 to 6:00 pm

Whether you want to learn more, volunteer, donate, foster, or adopt a new best friend — you are more than welcome.