A New Home for Ten Rescued Animals: Their Second Chance at De Zonnegloed

This week, we received a call that tugged at our hearts. Dierenwelzijn Vlaanderen urgently requested care for ten animals in immediate need. When these animals arrived at our sanctuary, it was clear they had endured a harsh past. Malnourished, weakened, and neglected, their condition was a sobering reminder of why our mission is so important.

A camel, two meerkats, and seven Hudson squirrels have now found a safe haven at De Zonnegloed. But their journey to recovery is only beginning. Here, in the sanctuary’s secure environment, they can finally rest and receive the care they have been denied for far too long.

A Second Chance for the Camel

Juliette, a female camel, arrived in alarming physical condition—clearly malnourished and dehydrated due to a lack of proper care. Camels have specific dietary needs, requiring fibrous foods that their digestive systems process gradually. At De Zonnegloed, she now receives a carefully tailored diet to help her regain strength, and her health is monitored daily to ensure steady recovery. Alongside proper nutrition, we provide her with the space and freedom of movement she desperately missed, giving her the chance to rediscover her vitality.

A Safe Haven for the Meerkats

The two meerkats, a male (Ajani) and a female (Ania), showed signs of neglect upon arrival: they were underweight, their fur was dull, and their tails were hairless—indicative of prolonged stress and insufficient care. Beyond physical recovery, these animals need a safe, tranquil environment. They now reside in an enriched enclosure where they can dig, play, and feel secure in each other’s company. With proper nutrition and daily care, we hope to see their natural curiosity and playful energy return.

A Fresh Start for the Hudson Squirrels

Our seven Hudson squirrels also show clear signs of their troubled past. Naturally agile and inquisitive, these animals had their health and behavior impacted by inadequate care. At De Zonnegloed, they now live in a specially designed enclosure filled with space and enrichment, allowing them to climb, forage, and hide freely. With a nutritious diet and attentive care, we’re helping them regain their strength, one step at a time.

The First Step: Medical Care and Recovery

Upon their arrival, all the animals underwent thorough examinations by our veterinarian to assess their health. Blood tests, fecal analyses, and behavioral observations provided valuable insights into their needs. This information helps us create individualized care plans for each animal, ensuring they have the best possible start in their new lives. Every recovery journey is unique, and with your support, we can guide them toward a brighter future.

Your Support Makes Recovery Possible

Providing the specialized care these animals need—ranging from tailored diets and medical treatment to a safe and enriching environment—requires constant attention and resources. Your contribution can make a crucial difference in their recovery. Consider making a donation or symbolically adopting an animal to support their journey toward a better life.

Together, we can give them the second chance they deserve.