Stray dogs were being shot and poisoned in the park in an effort to control the spread of Rabies to endangered Ethiopian Wolf populations. The Park staff objected to the cruel measures and developed a successful Animal Birth Control sterilization and vaccination program. HAPS was born.

In 2001, HAPS became a registered charity working throughout the country of Ethiopia to promote animal welfare. HAPS continues to both protect the Ethiopian Wolf and provide a humane solution for Rabies control, along with many other beneficial programs.

Executive Director Hana Kifle talked to LLH about HAPS' work.

HAPS, now based in Addis Ababa, established an animal shelter and clinic in 2006. Below is the 10-kennel enclosure they built to accept some homeless puppies off the streets (like those pictured below, right). Unfortunately, the property they were leasing has been sold, and HAPS is searching for a new supporter to let them build and run a small kennel on their land.

HAPS brought humane Animal Birth Control to Addis Ababa in a one-year pilot program that was endorsed by the local government. It established a spay/neuter clinic and a much-needed emergency clinic for treatment of injured and sick homeless dogs. Below, a dog is being spayed to prevent future unwanted litters. Also, a dog is treated for a serious neck wound and afterwards, is ready to find a loving home.

People are very eager to hear about HAPS, and many ask where they can get vaccinations and other treatments for their dogs and cats. People's attitude towards animal welfare has changed to some extent but still there is a need for HAPS' awareness creation program to continue.

School childern in primary school are educated about animal welfare and proper handling of pets by HAPS volunteers. Pamphlets are handed out to the children and make it home to the parents, so the whole family can learn something new about animal welfare. Sadly, children still must be taught not to stone homeless dogs.

Anyone in North America wishing to help HAPS build a new kennel or further their other missions can easily donate and receive a tax deduction by sending a check to:
Animal People
P.O. Box 960
Clinton, WA 98236

Include a note saying the donation goes to HAPS in Ethiopia. One Little Lotus Hearts friend recently sent a check this way and received a nice thank you email very shortly after from HAPS, so it works!

We thank you for all your hard work for Ethiopian animals, friends and volunteers of HAPS!