Action: AVA (Aid for Elderly Animals)
The origin of the association Help for Old Animals
Over 30 years ago, Maxime and Jenny Légier, a couple of animal lovers outraged by the fate of the most vulnerable among them, founded the Quesnoy animal sanctuary in 1986, no longer able to bear seeing shelters euthanize animals they couldn't rehome. Since its inception, AVA has been rescuing and protecting these elderly animals—cattle, horses, dogs, cats, and even deer—who live together harmoniously. In 2003, the reindeer at the farm were taken over by Dr. Thierry Bedossa, a veterinarian who has volunteered with AVA since 1990. He himself is deeply appalled by these associations and shelters that continue to practice these arbitrary killings, which violate the basic principles of animal welfare and humane treatment. In collaboration with Marie Volle and Laure de Saint Rémy, Alain Van Der Berghe and Philippe Pages, the association was created and has since strived to perpetuate the humanist project of its founders, by conducting a central reflection around the well-being and humane treatment of animals, as well as the link and relationship between Man and Animal, and living beings in general.
In what ways is the AVA refuge different?
AVA's mission encompasses both the care of an animal, the search for its well-being, and the work necessary for its rehabilitation. The AVA shelter is one of the largest independent shelters in France, housing nearly 500 animals. A pioneer in its approach to living beings, it integrates an understanding of the environment and the study of behavior to provide each individual with the most appropriate solutions for their well-being. A few years later, the arrival of Fanette Barraya and then Kosma Brijatoff allowed for the development of a much better understanding and approach, linking the well-being of the animals to that of the humans who care for them, and who, ultimately, share the same vulnerabilities.
What are its fundamental missions?
We provide an alternative to euthanasia for aging, senile, disabled, dangerous and aggressive animals, those exhibiting troublesome or undesirable behavior, or suffering from pathologies, by offering them as much as possible a peaceful and serene retirement in the countryside, with other animals, and pampered by passionate caretakers.
The euthanasia of these animals, who are sensitive, intelligent individuals seeking a good life but in a vulnerable situation, is still far too often considered, even by major animal protection associations.
We also provide unwavering support for ethical and independent scientific research, enabling the acquisition of knowledge based on facts, and not just on opinions or emotions.
Beyond rescuing and caring for these animals, one of the specific features of the shelter is to make their rehabilitation possible?
This is a necessary work carried out with the help of 25 employees, veterinarians, behaviorists, ethologists, dog trainers and volunteers: regaining trust in humans, making them progress at their own pace, by practicing games and positive reinforcement, by taking care to enrich their environment and stimulate them, it is accompanying each animal towards a better life that is unique to them.
AVA will be present at the Pet Revolution seminar: The Animal on the March. What topics will be covered?
The AVA refuge also aims to host scientific research and study projects, serving as a place where professionals share their knowledge in a "think tank" spirit, focused on education and knowledge transfer. The seminar is one such forum for sharing and meeting around the fascinating interaction that is the human-animal relationship.
One of the topics that will be addressed is the sensitive subject of "dying well." As an extension of our mission, and due to our role as a retirement home, we are called upon to support our residents during their final days. While we champion life and the right to grow old, surrounded and cared for like a family member, it is our responsibility to make the difficult decision, when the time comes, to help them die with dignity: to reassure, to relieve suffering, to provide care without resorting to aggressive treatment, to recognize signs of distress, and to prolong small moments of pleasure for as long as possible, right to the very end. To ensure that euthanasia is simply an act of love.
After 30 years of serving animals, the AVA shelter is in difficulty, how can we help it?
Caring for an animal in this way comes at a significant cost, extending far beyond veterinary care alone. We appeal to the generosity of all humanists and animal lovers to make a donation, help us raise awareness, become our sponsors or patrons – every gesture counts for the animals in our care!
The Les Néréides Loves Animals Foundation is following this wonderful association, AVA, with great care and affection! If you too would like to show your interest and support, here are their contact details:
AVA Association
Quesnoy Farm
76220 Cuy Saint Fiacre
A small link for a great refuge
