In fall 2007, a crisis occured when Daejeon city decided to close Ms. Jung's privately-run shelter, home to over 200 dogs. Korean and international shelter volunteers mobilized and were able to find homes for over 150 dogs over the next few months. Although the city granted several extensions, the shelter was finally closed permanently in December 2008.
The closing was not good news for the 80 dogs who were still waiting to be adopted. However, thanks to the efforts of the devoted volunteer crew, the dogs were able to relocate. 'Jane's Grandpa's' shelter in Asan has integrated the 80 Daejeon dogs with 200 rescued dogs and cats of its own.
Jane's Grandpa's shelter is run by Mr. Park, staffed with several caretakers, and has been helped by a dedicated group of Korean volunteers on a weekly basis for a few years. A group of expat volunteers led by Tim Vasudeva began visiting weekly starting in December 2008.
Photo by Harvey, Daejeon shelter moving day, December 2008.
Asan Shelter Needs Your Help
Weekly Saturday trips to the Asan shelter are now coordinated by Katherine Hall (Seoul) and Annie Sauvageau (Daejeon). New members are always welcome to join! The dogs and cats would love some exercise, socializing, and TLC. Volunteers meet in Seoul, Daejeon, or Cheonan/Asan train stations on Saturday mornings and stay at the shelter until about 3 or 4 in the afternoon. Donations are also welcome.
All of the dogs and many of the cats living at the shelter are adoptable. You can see photos of them in the Asan Adoptable Animals Gallery. The adoption fee is 50,000 won, which goes to the shelter to help cover expenses. An adoption application is also required. Please read the How to Adopt page and send your adoption application to Kirsten or Annie before visiting.
New! Adoption Days in Seoul
If you are interested in adopting from Asan but can't make the trip to the shelter, you can still meet selected animals at adoption days in Seoul. These are held regularly on Saturdays at Dr. Pet Animal Hospital in Gangnam and are coordinated by Ryan Goessl.
