Two vets bicycled through 16 countries to help our animals

Across Belgium, Turkey, China, and more… to help our dogs and cats

When two veterinarians (Dr. Bart and Dr. Inga) set out for our sanctuary from Belgium, they didn’t book plane tickets. They packed their bicycles.

Over the course of 223 days, they pedaled more than 8,300 miles, crossing 16 countries, pushing through heat, cold, borders, flat tires, and exhaustion – one long day after another – until they finally reached Sangkhlaburi, Thailand.

Their route carried them across Europe, through Eastern Europe and Central Asia, into China, and down through Southeast Asia, tracing a winding ribbon across continents. Each mile was powered by determination. Each border crossing brought new challenges – and new reminders of why they were doing this.

They weren’t chasing adventure for its own sake.

They were coming to help animals.

Every day on the road meant another day closer to Sangkhlaburi’s dogs and cats – animals who depend on skilled hands, compassion, and people willing to go far beyond what’s easy or expected. Along the way, they slept where they could, repaired their bikes themselves, and documented a journey defined not by speed, but by purpose.

When they finally arrived, tired but smiling, didn’t rest long. They went straight to work – bringing their experience, care, and commitment to the animals who needed them most.

Some people donate, or volunteer.  Dr. Bart and Dr. Inga rode bicycles halfway across the world.  We are immensely grateful they chose Sangkhlaburi as their destination.

But the truth is this: while their ride was extraordinary, the need waiting for them here is not unusual. Every single day in our community, dogs and cats are injured, sick, abandoned, or starving – and they depend on skilled veterinary care and immediate action to survive.

That’s why I am asking you to be part of this story.

Their ride was exceptional (that’s for sure) but what happened when they arrived – that’s where you come in…

• Because skilled hands alone don’t save lives.
• Because compassion alone isn’t enough…
• Because veterinarians can only help animals if the clinic is stocked, medicines are available,  equipment is ready, and the doors are open.

That readiness exists because of people like you.

The generosity of friends like you meant that when these two incredibly dedicated vets rolled into Sangkhlaburi – tired, sunburned, and smiling – there were animals waiting who could actually be treated, there were surgeries that could actually be performed, infections that could actually be fought and lives that could actually be saved.

In a place as remote as this, there is no backup system, no government safety net, and no second clinic down the road. What happens here depends entirely on whether caring people choose to stand with us.

The cyclists supplied the miles.

But it is our supporters – friends like you – who supply the lifeline.

If this journey shows us anything, it’s that compassion knows no borders – but it does require support.

Your gift today helps ensure that when dedicated professionals like these arrive – whether from across the world or closer – we have the supplies, medicine, equipment, and resources ready for them to save lives.

Dr. Bart and Dr. Inga pedaled halfway across the world.

You can help carry the mission the rest of the way.

With heartfelt gratitude,

P.S. Not everyone can bicycle across Europe and Asia to help animals – but every one of us can be part of what happens when they arrive. Your support keeps our clinic doors open, our emergency rescues moving, and our animals alive. Thank you so much for caring. I am deeply grateful.