Happy Ending/Final Feliz is an animal rescue association near Chiclana, Cadiz. The association was created by Margarita, a Norwegian lady who keeps the rescued dogs in her own home, surviving on her pension and funds raised from car boot sales organised by her volunteer helpers. Earlier in the year, the association were threatened with court action as they were informed the land (used regularly by the public) was privately owned.

However, life improved this year for Margarethe and the dogs. She tells the story.

‘December 2011. I have to tell you that things have changed a lot. We have had two big donations from two comittee members which made it possible to concrete half of each pen and then SOS Podencos NL showed up and found out we needed dog kennels in each pen. So, nor more ado, down came three ladies and build 11 kennels in one and a half days! I was so touched by this that it is hard to find words to thank them. Now at least the dogs have proper houses when the rain comes and I am very happy.

The next good thing that has happened is that the UK has opened their doors to us and we are sending some dogs in January. The transport is expensive though and I just hope we can manage.

We have been able to continue with the car boot sales and are just keeping our head above the water. The vet has been very good to us, and he does not panic if the amount we owe is growing passed 2.000€, but it has to be paid anyway and we are still struggling. Any help is welcome.

And I am proud to tell that we have rehomed about 100 dogs this year. We have also had 26 cases of Filaria at an average of 200€ for the cure (I know it is expensive, but so far not one of them has died)is getting a bit too much to handle. But I will use this opportunity to thank all the people that care and have helped us, and maybe it is time to say a big THANK YOU to the volunteers, who are working hard as well. I love you all, guys! Margarita Gloersen, President, Happy Ending-Final Feliz’