Animals in need in the Netherlands: why help is still needed

The Netherlands is known as a country where animal welfare is relatively well-regulated. However, that doesn't mean there aren't animals in need. On the contrary: behind the scenes, thousands of animals are still waiting for help, shelter, and a second chance.

Every year, tens of thousands of animals in the Netherlands end up in shelters, such as those run by the Dutch Society for the Protection of Animals.

The reasons are often distressing:

• Neglect or abuse
• Owners who can no longer cope with care
• Impulse purchases
• Illegal trade or poor breeding practices

Although the Netherlands has relatively few stray dogs compared to other countries, the problem still exists.

In the Netherlands, animals are fortunately protected by laws, such as the Animals Act. This law states that animals are not "things," but living beings with feelings. This is an important foundation.

Additionally, supervision is carried out by bodies such as the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority, which monitors animal welfare and intervenes in cases of abuse.

Still, there are areas for improvement:

• Enforcement is not always strong enough
• Illegal trade (especially via the internet) persists
• Not all animals fall under the same strict rules
• Penalties for animal cruelty are sometimes considered too low

In other words: the foundation is there, but there is still work to be done.

The role of shelters and aid organizations

Fortunately, there are countless organizations and volunteers who work day and night. Without them, many animals simply wouldn't have a chance. That's why I want POOT. to be more than just a webshop selling dog products. I want us to be able to do our part and assist in distressing situations, even if it's just a little bit.

Our dream with POOT

At POOT, we believe that doing business and doing good can go hand in hand. Maybe it's a big dream, but we think you have to start somewhere.

That's why €1 from each product sold goes into a donation pot for animals in need, with the aim of expanding this to 5 percent per product sold.

Our goal?
To collaborate with an organization dedicated to animal welfare and make a real impact there.

The reality is that this is not as easy as it sounds. We have approached several organizations, but have not yet received a response. And to be honest, we understand why.

You have to earn trust.
And as a startup, you first have to prove yourself.

Are we going to do it:

Yes, absolutely, it's a big dream, but that doesn't mean it can't become a reality.

We keep building POOT.
We keep saving in the donation pot.
And we keep looking for the right collaboration.

Do you have suggestions regarding the right collaboration? Don't hesitate to send an email to info@pootstudio.nl