About Zeus
Statement of Objectives
Zeus for Homeless and Stray Dogs recognizes the universal truth that all sentient beings fear starvation, cruelty, and death.
Our vision of “giving a rightful life to all dogs” and our mission of “rescuing, feeding, and caring for dogs” form the cornerstone of the fundamental values upheld by Zeus for Homeless and Stray Dogs.
As Buddha said, “Relate it to yourselves before you inflict any harm on others,” we strive to give a complete life to all dogs within sanctuaries of freedom and fullness.
Our dedication to providing a rightful living to all dogs in the Kingdom is unconditional. We observe and uphold the basic rights of dogs through total selflessness, where our actions speak louder than our name.
Our Story
Inspired by the benevolent vision of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo of Bhutan, who alleviated the famishment of the wild and commanded that no strays across the country go hungry during lockdowns, Zeus Nakulu Dog Shelter was born out of an unwavering willpower to serve and sacrifice. Founded by Mr. Thinley Norbu on June 22, 2020, in Paro, and later expanding to Thimphu, our shelters stand as a testament to compassion and altruism.
During the challenging times of the Covid-19 pandemic, Thinley Norbu, motivated by the sight of his beloved Zeus and other starving strays during the national lockdown, initiated a mass feeding program for homeless and stray dogs in Thimphu. Alongside Co-Founder Mr. Sherab Tenzin and a dedicated team of over 15 volunteers, this initiative has successfully fed over 300 dogs every day for three years.
Zeus Nakulu Dog Shelter operates two facilities: Shelter I in Chang Gewog, Thimphu, housing over 425 dogs, and Shelter II in Dopshari Gewog, Paro, with over 253 dogs. These shelters are more than just safe havens; they are sanctuaries where dogs are cared for with love and dedication.
From the beginning, the founders have provided two-thirds of the resources necessary to sustain the shelters, with the remaining support coming from the generous contributions of like-minded individuals. Today, Zeus Nakulu Dog Shelter continues to thrive, driven by the spirit of compassion and the commitment to ensuring that no dog goes hungry.
Join us in our mission to care for and protect the homeless and stray dogs of Bhutan. Together, we can create a better world for our furry friends.
Our Views
We observe compassion as the foundation of Buddha Dharma and compound compassion with altruism. We believe in sharing love and compassion with all sentient beings and addressing the dire need for the basic rights of these beings. We walk the path of loving dogs with the same passion and dedication as humans love each other.
Victories
Zeus for Homeless and Stray Dogs has achieved significant milestones in its mission to support and care for stray and homeless dogs.
During the lockdown, we successfully rescued 60 puppies and 33 adult strays in need of medical attention. We extend our gratitude to Jangsa Animal Rescue and Bhutan Animal Rescue and Care for their invaluable assistance during this critical time.
Over the past three years, we have consistently fed over 300 stray dogs in the capital city. Additionally, we have housed over 15 dogs, including puppies, in personal apartments.
Our efforts extend beyond rescue and feeding. We have conducted numerous veterinary programs focusing on dogs, including sterilization, anti-scabies treatments, mange treatment, anti-tick and flea treatments, distemper vaccinations, deworming, and more.
We have also been active in spreading information to combat animal cruelty and raising awareness, leading to a remarkable impact on public perception and behavior towards animals.
One of our most significant roles has been in the National Accelerated Dog Population Management and Rabies Control Program (NADPM & RCP). This effort culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Zeus for Homeless and Stray Dogs and the Department of Livestock, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, Royal Government of Bhutan, making Zeus for Homeless and Stray Dogs a Citizen-Government Undertaking.
This achievement led to the creation of Zeus Nakulu Dog Shelter I in Chang Gewog, Thimphu, and the subsequent expansion to Zeus Nakulu Dog Shelter II in Dopshari Gewog, Paro, following another Memorandum of Understanding with the Dzongkhag Administration, Paro.
Today, Zeus Nakulu Dog Shelter I houses over 390 dogs, and Zeus Nakulu Dog Shelter II shelters over 250 dogs. Both shelters are in the process of being officially recognized as Sanctuaries of Freedom, further cementing our commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment for all dogs.
Volunteer
Share your love and compassion with man’s best friend by volunteering with Zeus for Homeless and Stray Dogs.
Our volunteer opportunities will align closely with our various programs aimed at the well-being of all dogs in the Kingdom. While we currently face limitations that prevent us from fully executing all our initiatives, we eagerly anticipate expanding our programs and calling for volunteers to join us in our mission. There are many needy dogs throughout the country, and one day, we aspire to reach all of them as our sanctuaries grow into an unbounded empire of dogs. Your support and participation can help us make this vision a reality.
Work at Zeus
Serve unconditionally in various capacities at our shelters.
Performing selfless actions not only brings self-satisfaction but sharing love with dogs will elevate your contentment to another level. Join us at Zeus for Homeless and Stray Dogs and experience the joy of making a difference in the lives of these wonderful animals.
Milestones
- Contributing to Gross National Happiness: Our efforts align with the Kingdom of Bhutan’s pursuit of Gross National Happiness by ensuring the well-being of stray and homeless dogs, thereby fostering a compassionate society.
- Service to the Kingdom, Sentient Beings, and Buddha Dharma: Through our dedicated service, we uphold the principles of Buddha Dharma, promoting compassion and altruism towards all sentient beings within the Kingdom.
- Creating a Lasting Sanctuary for Dogs: We are building an enduring sanctuary for dogs, ensuring they live rightfully and receive the care and love they deserve for generations to come.
Intern
Practicing compassion is not as easy as talking about it.
Students, young people from colleges, and graduates in pursuit of their dreams can learn the essence and values of performing unconditional actions through our internship program. By engaging with our work, you will not only contribute to the well-being of dogs but also experience personal growth aligned with the principles of Buddha Dharma: cleansing defilements, accumulating merits, and fostering virtues. Join us and discover the profound impact of compassionate action.
FAQ
We are always here for you. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions you may have about Zeus for Homeless and Stray Dogs. We are happy to share information and provide answers to anything you would like to know about our organization, our mission, and our work. Your inquiries are always welcome.
Contact Us
If a dog needs to be saved, please contact your local authorities immediately. If they are unresponsive, call Zeus immediately—day or night—at 77764692 / 17275099. You can also reach out to Zeus by filling out our emergency call form. We are here to help and ensure the safety and well-being of all dogs in need.
