THE STREET DOGS OF KOSOVA
I love Kosova, but there's a pressing issue that needs attention: the plight of street dogs. After living here for several years, I've witnessed the heartbreaking reality of abandoned puppies left to fend for themselves on the streets. Tragically, many do not survive. Those that do often roam in small packs, struggling to find food and shelter. Unfortunately, they are largely misunderstood, facing mistreatment and indifference from many members of the community. It's heartbreaking to see them in poor health or to find them dead on the roadside after being struck by vehicles.
How It All Began
My personal journey with this issue began in December 2024, during a routine grocery run. As I left the parking lot, something caught my eye—a small, curled-up form beside a streetlamp. Upon closer inspection, I was met with a pair of adorable eyes and a wagging tail belonging to a frightened little puppy, abandoned in the cold. His chances of survival were slim. I couldn't leave him there. So, I brought him home.
Once settled in, I turned to Facebook, hoping to connect with someone interested in adopting him. That's when I discovered a dedicated community working tirelessly to rescue and support these animals. Many compassionate individuals volunteer their time and resources to help find safe homes for street dogs, creating a network of hope in a dire situation (more on this in a moment).
Our Three Rescues
Eventually, we adopted the puppy and named him Rosco. He quickly became a cherished member of our family. But our journey didn't end there. Currently, we are proud to have three rescue dogs in our home! Yep… THREE!
Napoleon, the next addition, was already living on our property when we purchased land and built a cottage in a village. As we settled in and began constructing our home, he gradually warmed up to us, effectively "adopting us" in his own way.
Then there's Luna. One chilly January morning, I spotted a tiny moving figure at the front of our property. It was another abandoned puppy, vulnerable and freezing. I grabbed my binoculars and watched in despair as passing vehicles came alarmingly close. I knew I had to act fast; otherwise, this little one wouldn't last long against the threat of traffic or the cold. Once again, we opened our hearts and our home to another pup in need.
Raising Awareness
These experiences have highlighted the urgent situation of street dogs in Kosova. In my small way, I hope to raise awareness and support local rescue efforts. As a foreigner living in Kosova, I'm not interested in the politics. I just want to help the dogs and help others to do the same.
To that end, I would like to introduce you to Argjenta Dociqi, a woman who has been dedicated to helping these dogs for decades—perhaps the foremost expert on this issue. This is her story, along with her recommendations on how to help the street dogs of Kosova.
I interviewed her for this article.
Interview with Argjenta Dociqi
Abel: “Argjenta, first, I would like to say thank you for all you have done to help the dogs. When did you start rescuing dogs in Kosovo?”
Argjenta: “I was born into a family that was always involved in rescuing animals. It was my mother who nurtured and strengthened our love for them. Unlike my friends’ mothers, mine would have been upset if I saw an animal in need and didn’t try to help.
I left Kosovo in 1998, but I made a promise to the street dogs that they would never be forgotten. Whenever I visited and saw so many stray and abandoned dogs on the streets, sick, injured, or starving, I knew I had to do more than just feed them. Over time, what began as a personal effort grew into a larger mission, and I connected with other rescuers who shared the same passion for helping these animals.”
Abel: “When I spoke with you before, you mentioned that you and several others here in Kosovo help relocate rescued dogs to safe homes in the United States. Can you walk me through that process?”
Argjenta: “The process begins by rescuing a dog from the streets or from an unsafe situation. We take the dog to a veterinarian for a full medical check, vaccinations, microchipping, and any necessary treatments. The dog is then placed in foster care, which is very difficult to find, where they can recover and begin socialization.
Once the dog is healthy and ready, we work with our partner organizations in the U.S., Canada, Macedonia, or the EU to find a suitable adopter. The dog must meet all travel and health requirements, including proper paperwork and export documentation.
We rely solely on flight volunteers who are already traveling in that direction and offer to be flight chaperones for our dogs. The dogs are not a financial burden to them, as we cover all expenses and handle the logistics. Their contact with the dogs is minimal.
Upon arrival in the United States or Canada, the receiving organization collects the dog from the airport and ensures a safe transition into their new home.”
Abel: “Can you tell me more about the agency that takes the dogs and finds them homes in the USA?”
Argjenta: “We partner with a U.S. based rescue organisation that specializes in international adoptions. They carefully screen potential adopters through applications, interviews, and home checks to ensure each dog is placed in a loving and responsible home. The rescue also coordinates transportation logistics within the U.S. or Canada and provides post adoption support to families when needed.”
Abel: “How many dogs do you think have been rescued through this process over the years?”
Argjenta: “I’m not sure of the exact number, but it’s over 2,000. This is the number of the dogs that have been saved and got adopted, but the number of the dogs that didn’t make it and passed away, is in the hundreds.”
Abel: “How much does the process of getting a dog safely to the U.S. cost, from rescue through fostering to flights, etc.?”
Argjenta: “The total cost per dog typically ranges from approximately $800 to $1,500, depending on medical needs and flight expenses. This includes veterinary care, vaccinations, microchipping, spay/neuter surgery, foster care, travel crates, paperwork, and airfare. When I rescue a dog, I try not to think of the money and how I’m going to get through… my only aim is to save him/her.”
Abel: “Where do the funds come from to pay for these dogs to go to the U.S.?”
Argjenta: “The funds come primarily from donations and my personal contribution. Supporters both locally and internationally contribute through fundraising campaigns and social media appeals. We rely heavily on the generosity of donors (friends and family) who believe in our mission.”
Abel: “If people want to help, in what ways can they do so?”
Argjenta: “There are many ways people can help. They can donate to cover medical and travel expenses, sponsor a specific dog, or foster locally. One of the biggest ways to help is by volunteering as a flight chaperone on trips to the U.S. or Canada. Even sharing our posts on social media helps us reach potential adopters and supporters.
Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference in saving these dogs’ lives. They will never be the “Forgotten dogs of Kosova”.”
In the picture above is Argjenta
Ways You Can Help
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