May 17, 2021 - 21 youths from Croatia, Greece, and Serbia are now in Zadar, Croatia for a week of helping stray dogs. Youth for Stray Dogs is a long-term project aiming to develop a solution for the rampant stray dog problem. Join them at their public event tomorrow, May 18, 2021, at the Zadar Sea Organ from 10:30 am onwards. 

Youth for Stray Dogs on a day of helping Privlaka animal shelter | Photo credit: Udrugra Prizma 

Udruga Prizma from Gračac in line with the Erasmus + program of the European Union gathered 21 youths from three European countries (Croatia, Greece, and Serbia) with the highest numbers of stray dog population to come up with a long-term solution to lessen, if not totally eradicate, the problem. 

The group believes that human behaviour is the most important factor in determining the stray dogs’ population dynamics and that the best and the most effective way to help homeless animals is to raise awareness in the community by educating them on how to be responsible dog owners and to give knowledge and assistance to people who are interested in learning how to become one.

Udruga Prizma said that the main objectives of this project are to promote responsible ownership through the encouragement of communities about greater dog responsibility for future and current owners, to raise awareness for animal rights and adoptions, to increase human’s positive attitude toward all sentient beings and to entice the youth in actively helping the community through practical activities.

To do that, Youth for Stray Dogs will conduct group reflections and discussions about current animal rights, visit dog shelters, conduct an interview with a dog trainer and organise local activities to engage the community in increasing empathy for all animals.

Photo credit: Luana Matošević

Below is the itinerary for Youth for Stray Dogs provided by Luana Matošević, one of the project coordinators:

May 15, 2021 (Saturday) - visit the Sklonište za źivotinje Privlaka (animal shelter) to help and take the dogs out for a walk

May 16, 2021 (Sunday) - atelier workshop to create beds for dogs by reusing abandoned tires they have recently collected from the Musapstan forest

May 17, 2021 (Monday) - a symposium about dog behaviour and animal first-aid to be conducted by a veterinary student from Greece

May 18, 2021 - CULMINATION DAY: Youth for Stray Dogs will hold a public event at Zadar sea organ from 10:30am to promote the project. They will be giving out informative brochures about everything you need to know to lessen the existing stray problem, and raise funds and food to be donated to Privlaka animal shelter.

Photo credit: Luana Matošević

This is the first part of the youth exchange program. The second part of the project will be taking place in Greece, in the city of Lamia, in September this year should the epidemiological situation allow. The first part conducted in Zadar, Croatia focuses on the animals that stay in local shelters; however, in Greece - where there is a much larger population of stray animals - the focus would be to build food and water stations and to settle agreements with the local community to improve the situation.

To know more about Udruga Prizma and their ongoing and future projects and events, CLICK HERE.

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Fancy a journey back into times gone by in Zadar? The Roman empire, which once dominated almost all of Europe, left a more than noticeable trace on the old face of Zadar, and while much of that can still be seen in many places in this famous Dalmatian city today, it wouldn't be enough without having an event dedicated to the Roman presence on these shores and more specifically in the City of Zadar.

As you probably already know, Zadar, a highly popular Dalmatian destination for tourists from all over the world, is a city with a very, very long history. A large part of that history is from the formerly glorious Roman period. The old city, traditionally known as ''Poluotok'' is full of Roman ruins.

However, that's not where it all begins and ends when it comes to showcasing Zadar's rich history with its long Roman past. That's where Zadar's Antiquity Days come in, with their interactive approach of reviving the spirit of old Roman times.

Traditionally, local students of archaeology from the University of Zadar have been organising the popular Antiquity Days manifestation in cooperation with the Archaeological Museum of Zadar and other generous sponsors.
The program includes a workshop for children, a treasure hunt, book promotions and much more, all rounded off with the final entertainment program held on Zadar's beautiful Forum.

You can see the full schedule of the program by clicking here.

A small procession through the streets of Poluotok, where the emperor and the empress will say hello to citizens and visitors alike will eventually end up on Zadar's Forum. Gladiator fights, oriental dances and a fire show are also will entertain the crowds. There, the emperor will decide on whether or not Zadar and its citizens have been loyal to the Roman Empire. Make sure to be there and enjoy this trip into Zadar's past!

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