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About the shelter

Fundatia Moldo-Germana “Laika” is a Moldovan-German animal welfare charitable foundation established in 2004.
Based in Ciorescu near Chișinău, it operates a shelter and veterinary clinic for stray and injured animals. The foundation was started by German journalist Christa Schechtl and is currently managed by Diana Manoli, who oversees daily operations.

 Laika’s shelter cares for around 100 dogs and dozens of cats at any given time, providing them with medical treatment (including sterilization and vaccination) and rehabilitation. The organization’s mission is to reduce homeless animal populations humanely – through rescue, sterilization campaigns, and local/international adoptions.
 Over the years, Laika has led numerous free spay/neuter drives (often in partnership with local authorities), educational programs in schools, and public awareness campaigns to promote animal welfare.

 Laika is a registered non-profit foundation in Moldova and relies on donations and volunteers to sustain its work. Supporters can help by volunteering at the shelter, donating funds or pet food/supplies, or adopting animals. The shelter even facilitates international adoptions – many of its dogs and cats have found new homes in Germany thanks to cross-border cooperation. 
 Active on Facebook and Instagram, Laika regularly shares updates on rescued pets and success stories. The foundation’s impactful work has been featured in Moldovan media, highlighting its contribution to solving the stray animal issue in a compassionate way. 
Laika stands out as one of Moldova’s most prominent animal rescue organizations, offering homeless pets a second chance at life in loving homes.