GuardMe:
Proteggimi (Protect Me)

April 2021

What it is – The Concept

A stray dog cannot survive in a modern city filled with dangers and threats, just as an abandoned dog cannot regain trust in humans before restoring its dignity. Just like humans, who enjoy gathering, forming families, socializing, and integrating into a world suited to their needs, why shouldn’t a dog wish for the same conditions? After all, they are our best friends.

Humanity, not Humanization:

now, perhaps more than ever, a simple touch has gained greater “significance” because its absence has reminded us that humanity isn’t just about humans but also the condition of a living being capable of compassionate feelings toward others, as well as itself.
Approaching a dog with the intent to adapt it to human needs, humanizing it in our image, is not an act worthy of being associated with the populations residing on this planet.

Humanity < versus > Anthropocentrism:

More humanity and less anthropocentrism mean greater awareness and realization that these special beings need the qualities and skills our species has developed. Yet, they cannot constantly live in total submission to the rules of a society that fails to include them while respecting their species.

Are the rules truly for everyone?

Is there a law that genuinely ensures the well-being and quality of life for animals, specifically our loyal four-legged friends? While progress has been made in legislation, much remains to be done to establish practical, enforceable standards that can be applied daily, transforming them into norms of Good Conduct for all living beings.

EducAction & Mindset: to gradually reach these goals and pass down these fundamental concepts to new and future human generations, it is essential to learn today, document, educate, and integrate what is missing in our current understanding of living together with our beloved pets.

Past-and-New Generations: to cross the bridge from experience to a new perspective, moving naturally from the past to the future, we must recreate and strengthen the bond between children and the elders who have tirelessly fought for animal welfare. This bond can enable new generations to benefit from the support of the &quot;older pack members,&quot; creating a fruitful collaboration.

Guard Me® Proteggimi (Protect Me)

• A Safe Place: A home, a shelter, or a functional and secure space, whether temporary or more permanent, that can host and protect the city’s dogs, provide them with proper care, and help them find a new family.
• Guardians and Their Gardens: Implementing actions for the project’s objectives and mission requires creating a SPACE (indoor and outdoor) to host groups of dogs, ensuring peaceful coexistence and a functional environment for their well-being and health. Guardians are not just caretakers but protectors and tutors, ensuring their care and safety during their stay.

The Work of Guardians:

• Tasks include meeting basic needs (sleep, nourishment, cleanliness, and medical care), physical activity, therapy, and rehabilitation for physical and emotional trauma, and preparing dogs for adoption.
• New Activities and Professional Roles: Developing interactive and multidisciplinary skills, accessible to both professionals (veterinarians, dog trainers, pet therapists, etc.) and individuals, including students seeking new disciplines, forms the project’s real innovation.

Concrete Benefits:

• A closer connection between human and animal well-being.
• A more respectful dialogue between humans and nature.
• Progress in protecting and sustaining our planet.
• Beyond ideals and values, ProtActions pave the way for a better future.