Dear friends, well-wishers, donors, supporters of PreetiRang Sanctuary!
The recent rains flooded our sanctuary grounds. Before the water can recede another storm hits. The current cow shelter provides respite from strong winds and shade from the blistering summer sun, but when it rains the dirt floor turns to mud and there is really no higher dry ground for them to find relief. Also, the shelter is not large enough for all the cows. When we built our current structures, we were not prepared for FLOODS IN CA.
Prolonged standing/sitting in the dirty water leads to diseases like hoof rot and digestion issues due to the contamination of food on the ground. We need to prevent these issues by providing better refuge to the cows. This year, this winter has renewed our commitment to building a more substantial shelter, which can't be easily dented or stripped by the cows, is relatively maintenance free, will last decades, protect them from the forces of Nature, be adequate so despite their hierarchy (likes and dislikes), they will all fit inside and be safe from medical conditions.
The elevated concrete floor will keep flood water out and be easier to keep clean than gravel into which excreta seeps and makes it unhealthy to feed them on it. Also, it can be kept wet to provide coolness in summer.
Each winter and summer during the existence of PreetiRang has been more extreme. We know cows, and all animals, suffer like we do.
In our conversations with sanctuaries in CA and places with harsh winters, this is the best option we have come up with.
The estimates we have received show the total cost will be $70-75,000.
The metal shed at a large discount (extra stock from last year) will cost $42,000
The estimates for concrete pad spread over a range up to 43K. We are working on reducing costs without compromising on quality.
We can neither start nor complete this ambitious project without your help.
Gratefully and fortunately, one of our generous donors has kick-started this project by offering a $25,000 match! Please donate generously to help the cows from the effects of Climate Change.
Wish everyone a very happy, healthy, joyful and peaceful 2023!
from everyone at PreetiRang Sanctuary