Animal Protection (2011 Q2)
Animal Protection

Featured beneficiary in the ANIMAL PROTECTION category for second quarter 2011:
STRAYDOG

StraydogOur Animal Protection category has sponsored two species-level protection organizations, a biodiversity advocate, a seabird rescue, and a charity dedicated to improving animal treatment in the U.S. To further explore the wide variety in this field, Foundation Beyond Belief is proud this quarter to support Straydog, a "lifeboat" no-kill adoption shelter for rescued dogs near Dallas, Texas.

Straydog currently houses over 100 formerly homeless dogs at their facility (plus 30+ cats in foster homes) that all want "forever families." All of the dogs are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, on heartworm preventive, housed in clean kennels, and available for adoption. All cats are spayed/neutered, vaccinated and tested for common feline diseases. All medical records for any animal are available. All animals are provided high quality food, frequent human interaction, and off-leash playtime in a large fenced "park" on the premises.

Straydog received a strong nomination push from both members and non-members, as well as personal visits and vetting from participants in the 2010 Texas Freethought Convention.

LEARN MORE ABOUT STRAYDOG
Website: straydog.org
Annual expenses: $600,000
ABOUT THE SELECTION PROCESS

Foundation Beyond Belief highlights ten charitable organizations per quarter. Among other considerations, beneficiaries are chosen for efficiency, effectiveness, moderate size (annual budget under $10 million), compatibility with humanist focus on mutual care of this world and this life, and geographic diversity. All categories feature secular organizations with the exception of "Challenge the Gap," which gives members the option of supporting one progressive, non-proselytizing religious organization each quarter.

Active members can help us choose future beneficiaries by researching and nominating charities and by discussing, debating, and advocating for the causes of their choice through our social network and discussion forums. Final decisions are made by the Board, but collective member input is among the most important considerations.
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