Blog

From rescuing animals in urgent need to providing long-term care, promoting responsible adoption, and educating communities, Asociația Dumbrava lui Patrocle brings together a network of projects driven by compassion and responsibility.

Blog

Stories, updates, and small glimpses from life at Dumbrava.

June 2026

June 2026

From new kitten rescues and veterinary visits to children’s activities, therapy sessions, senior gatherings, and the launch of our Duolingo challenge, last month was another busy one at Dumbrava. Here’s a look back at everything we accomplished together, thanks to the support of our volunteers, donors, and community.

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Ups and downs

Ups and downs

Every few months, it feels like everything decides to happen at once. A broken van, a leaking water pipe, unexpected veterinary visits, a kitten we couldn’t save, a newborn that now depends on us, and Roxy’s physiotherapy in Cluj. None of these problems can wait, but neither can the children, seniors and animals who rely on Dumbrava every day.

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Baba - How Long Should We Keep Going?

Baba - How Long Should We Keep Going?

Three years ago, the decision was easy, saving Baba's life was the only option. Today, at around fifteen years old, the question is much harder: **how long should we keep going?** Sometimes the kindest decision isn't about helping an animal live longer—it's about helping them live their remaining time in peace.

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Duolingo competition

Duolingo competition

On June 15th, seven children from Dumbrava started a summer-long Duolingo challenge. Until September 15th, they will compete for the longest streak, the largest XP gain, and the biggest language-level improvement. The goal isn't just learning a foreign language, it's learning consistency, one lesson at a time.

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May 2026

May 2026

From Children’s Day preparations that doubled our expected attendance to rescuing 14 abandoned animals in a single day, May was full of moments that tested our resources and strengthened our community. Here's what happened at Dumbrava lui Patrocle in May. 🌳💚

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Children’s Day at Dumbrava 2026

Children’s Day at Dumbrava 2026

We planned Children’s Day for around 50 participants, there were almost 100. Between chasing balloons through the village, redesigning sports courses on the fly, and activities that never quite fit into the schedule, the children gave us the best feedback we could have hoped for: “Are there more activities?” The story of a chaotic, exhausting, and absolutely wonderful day.

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