SOLIDARITY INITIATIVES IN ANIMAL SHELTERS: HUMANISTIC EDUCATION AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22479/texturav19n2p111_135Keywords:
animal welfare, empathy, animal protection, social responsibility, one healthAbstract
The abandonment and abuse of domestic animals are social, public health, and ethical issues that call for collective action. This study aimed to analyze solidarity initiatives carried out by health sciences students in animal welfare organizations, highlighting their contributions to social responsibility and humanistic education. This descriptive, qualitative documentary study was based on four academic reports produced in 2026, comprising 39 records of student participation in organizations located in Cruz das Almas and Santo Antônio de Jesus, Bahia, Brazil. Activities included fundraising campaigns, community engagement, donations, facility visits, and interaction with rescued animals. One initiative collected 165 kg of dog food; another collected 140 kg of pet food and BRL 149.00. The documents identified challenges related to funding, animal care, and adoption. In students’ accounts, these experiences were associated with empathy, cooperation, increased awareness, and reflection on animal care. These initiatives therefore have the potential to strengthen ties between universities and communities, address the needs of animal welfare organizations, and foster ethical, civic, and humanistic education for future healthcare professionals.
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