CONTENT 04 NEWS AND EVENTS 06 LOVE AND LIFE WITH MAN’S BEST FRIEND 10 NIKO ROCKS COLLECTION 17 EMBARK ACCESSORIES 18 EMBARK: FASHION, PASSION, PASHIONABLE 21 EMBARK IN NUMBERS 22 NEVER GIVING UP: BLACKY’S STORY 25 CONTACT US
Embark magazine design and concept by Odel
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NEWS AND EVENTS STERILISATION & VACCINATION
Initiated by the Divisarana Animal Welfare Society - University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Embark supported the treatment, sterilisation, and vaccination of dogs within the university premises. Embark’s “Canine Population and Rabies Control Project, Maharagama” also continues in partnership with Best Care Animal Hospital and the Maharagama Medical Officer of Health. Together with Blue Paw Trust and Best Care Animal Hospital, the project has vaccinated 3,300; sterilised 337; and treated 150 dogs within the Maharagama DS division.
SAVING THE INJURED
Embark’s field team carried out emergency animal rescues throughout Colombo and in the last 3 months, helped treat and rehabilitate more than 150 injured street dogs in partnership with three veterinary clinics. After months of treatment, hands-on care and physiotherapy, Embark was also able to unite several special needs dogs with caring families. Rescue dogs like Blacky, Missy, Sundance, Rozzy, Whita and Angu are now happy in new homes. You can read more stories like theirs on www.embark.lk 04 | EMBARK
PUPPY ADOPTION
Embark Puppy Adoption Days have experienced continued success with more than 120 puppies finding great homes in the last 3 months. People from all walks of life have come forward to foster and adopt rescue puppies. Adoption Days are supported by teams of qualified veterinarians and a growing number of active volunteers. The Embark field team also follows up with adopted puppies, advising families on nutrition, training, and basic puppy care.
EDUCATION & AWARENESS
All of Embark’s activities are supported by a comprehensive and consistent campaign of education. As part of Embark’s Sterilisation and Vaccination Project in Maharagama, Embark and partnered veterinarians have worked with 4 schools in Maharagama, educating more than 2200 students on rabies, dog-bite prevention, and responsible pet ownership. Embark also publishes supplements in local newspapers aimed at encouraging children to be compassionate towards animals while teaching them about pet care and the importance of sterilisation and vaccination. EMBARK | 05
LOVE AND LIFE WITH MAN’S BEST FRIEND What do three young people; an architect, a high school student, and an undergraduate have in common? They all LOVE dogs, and have given their time and energy to help improve the lives of animals in Sri Lanka. The Embark team caught up with them to hear what they have to say about love and life with man’s best friend! An architect, bibliophile, and ardent animal lover, Anu has grown up with several canine companions. So much so that she even describes herself as half dog! Whether at home or on the street, Anu has befriended, fed and looked after countless dogs over the years. While studying, volunteering or spending time at home, dogs have been a part of Umaya’s life ever since she was old enough to walk on her own. From Pepsi, the rescue dog and Bundle her first dog, to Ruby the gentle giant and her two canine friends, Umaya’s home is filled with wagging tails and the playful antics of not one, but FOUR dogs! Similarly, Shanali has been surrounded by dogs from the time she was just 11 and likes nothing more than spending time
with them! Dreaming of one day building a dog-sanctuary, Shanali enjoys balancing work, studies and her passion for animal welfare.
LIVING WITH DOGS
Asked to describe what it is about dogs that she finds special, Shanali didn’t need a second to answer. “Dogs are constant” she said, giving her 20kg baby a tummy rub. “They love us no matter what, and can understand and respond to all our varied feelings.” While cautiously keeping a plate of food away from four sets of greedy eyes, Umaya described her relationship with her dogs in two words, “Best Friends”. With them from the moment she gets home, one hand ruffling their fur while she completes her homework or reads a book, and with them even as she goes to sleep, her dogs have a claim to her life and every inch of her space. Often stretching themselves out at all odd angles, tails in her face, feet poking into her side and another sleeping right across her - “Best Friends” seems to sum up their relationship just right!
Shanali & Kelly 06 | EMBARK
Umaya, Ruby, Pepsi, Jonie and Joanna
“Some people say that you shouldn’t be helping animals when there are people in need, but there are millions of people helping humans. If you wait until you finish looking after people – there will be no animals left to help” “Unconditional love” said Anu, describing what she thinks makes dogs so special. Her dog Chicky is always the first to give her a hug when she wakes up, and no matter how long she’s been out, Chicky waits faithfully to greet her when she gets home from work. “If Chicky could talk, I’m sure she would just ask me to stay home and cuddle her all day” said Anu, giving her dog a hug.
Asked about what others can do to help street dogs in our country, Umaya responded with a quotable quote, “Charity begins at home” she said. “People should make sure their own dog is vaccinated and if female - sterilised as well. Start small, look at helping one other dog in your own area, and encourage your neighbours and friends to also vaccinate and sterilise their dogs”.
WORKING WITH DOGS
Speaking to Anu about her experiences working with dogs, we heard about how her heart had gone out to a litter of puppies that were abandoned in the rain. She had taken the puppies home, secretly made a warm shelter for them in the garden and had looked after them until they were safe! Even with a heavy workload and full time job, Anu is still able to help wherever she can. From fostering, to feeding and looking after dogs in her area, we learned of her secret. “It’s not difficult” she said, “I just really love what I’m doing!”
“I’ve wanted to help and work with animals ever since I was in school” said Shanali. “Going to school in the mornings and seeing thin, malnourished dogs rummaging through garbage piles for food was heartbreaking, and I had to do something”. Starting off by feeding some of the dogs around her home, Shanali did just that. Now working towards getting them vaccinated and sterilised, each dog in her neighbourhood has a name and seems to be very much a part of the community!
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Anu & Chicky
VOLUNTEERING
Sharing about her experiences on volunteering, Shanali highlighted the importance of enjoying what you do “Volunteering is more than giving your time or money, it’s about the satisfaction of seeing rescue dogs going to great homes.” “My favourite Sunday of the month” said Anu, speaking about the Embark Puppy Adoption Day. “Apart from getting to spend time with all those puppies, it’s also where I feel the most normal, amongst other animal lovers, foster parents and rescuers who feel the same way about animals.” Umaya summed it up well when she said “Working with dogs can be one of the most fun and rewarding experiences for an animal lover! But volunteering is something you do because you want to, it’s not just about hanging out and spending time. It’s a commitment.” 08 | EMBARK
Whether it’s caring for our own dogs responsibly, helping dogs on the street, or volunteering - all of us can do something to help improve the lives of street dogs in Sri Lanka.
“Volunteering is something you do because you want to, it’s not just about hanging out and spending time. It’s a commitment.”
T-shirt Rs. 1,150 Short Rs. 1,450 Embark Tote Rs. 1,250 Badge Rs. 250 Wristband Rs. 75
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Capturing the current trends of the global fashion scene, Embark’s new collection is inspired by Niko’s rock star attitude! With his erstwhile sidekick Bandit, Niko works the look, and offers a collection of rock star couture that is apt for everyone. Eye catching grunge looks, acid washes and gothic fonts give the new collection an innovative twist to suit Sri Lankans and Embark fans of all ages. Characterised by bold, edgy slogans with attitude, such as ‘Rock & Drool,’ ‘Rebel with Paws,’ ‘Tame Me,’ ‘Bite, Bark, Rock,’ ‘Loud Mouth’ and ‘Barkmonster’, the new collection comprises of over 160 individual styles of t-shirts, tank tops, lounge wear, boxers, boyfriend shorts, and accessories accented by neon colours for the rock star dude or diva.
& AT WWW.ODEL.LK
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This Page: 3/4 Gym Pant Rs. 1,150 Embark Tote Rs. 1,250 Opposite Page: Cap Rs. 525 Wristband Rs. 75 Short Rs. 1,150 T-shirt Rs. 975 EMBARK | 13
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This Page: Short Rs. 1,450 Skinny Rs. 975 Opposite Page: Cap Rs. 525 Wristband Rs. 75 Short Rs. 1,150 T-shirt Rs. 975 EMBARK | 15
Wristband Rs. 75 Short Rs. 1,150 T-shirt Rs. 1,250 16 | EMBARK
EMBARK ACCESSORIES
Caps Rs. 525 Slippers Rs. 525 - 675 Badges Rs. 175 - 250 Wristbands Rs. 75 - 150 Collars and Leads Rs. 350 - 1,550
Dog Bowls Rs. 550 - 1,950 Dog Grooming Rs. 375 - 2,150 Pet Treats Rs. 375 - 525 Dog Toys Rs. 275 - 725 EMBARK | 17
EMBARK: FASHION, PASSION, PASHIONABLE
From humble beginnings to the international brand name we have grown to know and love, the journey that Embark has taken over the last five years has been nothing short of spectacular. While our objectives are quite commonly known, we thought it would be nice to give our fans an intimate look at the roller coaster ride that has brought us to the here and now. As Otara’s personal initiative to better the lives of street animals; Embark began in March 2007 with little more than 10 square feet of space in the Odel flagship store at Alexandra Place. At that time we had just 6 black and white t-shirt styles and we pinned them with our hopes for the future of street dogs in Sri Lanka. Early the next year, Otara adopted Niko, who she found abandoned on the road near her home. A name now synonymous with the Embark brand, Niko went on to become the ambassador, symbol and icon for Embark, and perhaps the most recognised street dog in Sri Lanka! While he rose to fame, he carried with him the message that owning a street dog was fashionable, bringing hope to others like him all over the island. By July 2009, Embark shimmied down the catwalk with a bang at the first inaugural fashion show. In a breakout move, Embark designs moved away from its hallmark black and white and showcased a collection that would appeal to people of all ages and tastes. With vibrant colours and diverse styles of t-shirts, the Embark collection featured more than 150 items, and had more than doubled its floor space to accommodate the new pieces. Models took to the ramp wearing Embark clothes and the best accessory they could possibly wear - a rescue pup! By the end of that year we had 18 | EMBARK
moved into dog products, with a focus on leads, collars and dog accessories, proving that our products could make not only the owners fashionable, but their pets as well.
EMBARK AT COLOMBO FASHION WEEK
In 2010 and 2011 respectively, Embark took its fashion shows to a nationwide platform by participating in Colombo Fashion Week. With the ‘Love Niko’ and follow-up ‘Niko and the Bandit’ collections which featured the second street dog adopted by Otara, models once again owned the ramp with stylish designs and adorable street pups. The line caught the eye of a retailer from India which led to Embark products being sold outside Sri Lanka for the very first time, and thus granted us vital exposure to international markets. In October 2010, in commemoration of World Animal Day, a limited quantity of wristbands were introduced and were proudly sported by Embark volunteers at a walk organised by Odel. By February 2011, these same bands were released to the public and have since become iconic for supporters of the cause. Embark collections featuring our mascot Niko and his new friend Bandit continued onwards over the years. Products built around fun themes like ‘Niko goes to Hollywood’ which brought the glamour and glitter of Tinsel Town to trendy casual clothing, ‘Niko the Flirt’ which featured catchy slogans and double entendres like ‘will you be my dog walker?’ and ‘Niko the Spy’ which featured products that were casual and elegant - drawing inspiration from the suave James Bond; ensured that the Embark line grew and flourished.
Otara & Niko
Niko as a puppy
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5 YEARS OF EMBARK
By March 2012, Embark celebrated its 5 year anniversary. Embark now sells in 18 Odel stores island-wide. Over the years, we have never forgotten our position as innovators, nor have we forgotten the core ideals that set us in motion. While helping thousands of street dogs over the years, Embark has retained the originality which made it so special in its inception. While purposefully staying away from negative imagery, our portrayal has always depicted the happiness and love that these animals so desperately want to give. Embark’s products remain high quality and stylish with their own unique feel.
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The ride has been amazing and all of us could never have predicted that when we first started, this is where we would end up. But of course it’s not over yet! Our cause remains as worthy as ever, and our four legged friends depend on us more and more with every passing day. Our dream remains as it always was - to provide a better life for the street dogs of Sri Lanka and give them the love, respect and home they deserve; as we look towards the future in anticipation to see this dream made a reality.
EMBARK IN NUMBERS STERILISATION & VACCINATION
Over the last 5 years Embark has funded, monitored and managed several large scale, community inclusive ABC (animal birth control) programmes in and around Colombo. We support local communities, working with partners and the local government, implementing large scale dog population and rabies management projects and offering vaccinations and sterilisations free of charge.
PUPPY RE-HOMING
Ever since Embark began working to improve animal welfare in our communities, we have promoted the concept of adopting rescued local dogs because we believe they make ideal companions for dog lovers. We work with foster parents, volunteers and veterinarians to ensure that all rescued pups are vaccinated, wormed, healthy, active and ready to go to a new home.
EDUCATION AND AWARENESS SAVING THE INJURED
Since an essential part of Embark’s mission is to improve the wellbeing of animals throughout the country; the team actively assists in the rescue and treatment of injured street dogs. From emergency rescue to hospitalisation, treatment, physiotherapy and long term care, we work closely with partnered veterinary clinics to provide the best treatment possible, that will get an injured animal back on its paws.
All of Embark’s activities are supported by a comprehensive and consistent campaign of education that addresses fears and ignorance regarding animal welfare as part of an overriding objective to change the attitudes of our communities. We work towards raising awareness on animal welfare, nurturing responsible pet ownership and advocating practical approaches to coexisting with community animals.
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NEVER GIVING UP: BLACKY’S STORY If we were to ask you if you had seen a street dog, it would seem like a silly question. Everyone in this country has seen a street dog - by the bus stops, outside clothing stores or drinking water from puddles on the road. More often than not, the dogs we see are unhealthy, sick or suffering in some way. Yet we pass them by, perhaps we hardly even see them anymore. But some of us are unable to walk away from the injured, unable to turn a blind eye to a creature that is so desperately in need of help. We know someone like that who forever changed the life of a dog named Blacky. And this is his story.
Shane is a true animal lover, and will help any animal in distress, big or small. He has aided numerous dogs that have been in need of medical attention; doing whatever he can to help. The fact that it was him driving down the Piliyandala - Maharagama road one evening was the difference of life and death for Blacky. Shane saw Blacky get knocked down by a three wheeler and immediately stopped to help. The three wheeler sped off, leaving Shane to deal with the shattered and scared animal. Shane carefully moved Blacky to the side of the road; the dog was severely hurt and his back legs were completely immobile. Quickly ringing Embark for immediate assistance, Shane cleared his schedule for the rest of the day so he could accompany Blacky to the vet.
Blacky with paralysed hind limbs - Jan 2012 22 | EMBARK
Blacky undergoing physiotherapy - Feb 2012
Embark’s rescue team assisted in transporting Blacky to Best Care Animal Hospital where preliminary tests were done to ascertain the degree of damage to Blacky’s hindquarters. Tests revealed that the extent of injuries made it unlikely that Blacky would ever walk again. However, a veterinarian at the clinic, Dr. Anura oversaw Blacky’s case and was not willing to give up on him. Dr. Anura recalls Blacky’s kind disposition that helped him grow accustomed to the staff quite easily. Never aggressive, Blacky often allowed his vets and handlers to put medicine in his mouth without a problem. The vets at Best Care Animal Hospital have treated many injured dogs over long periods, but Blacky remains the dog they treated for the longest amount of time. Veterinary codes are very much different from the practice of human medicine and many vets choose to euthanise animals if they show no sign of recovery. The loss of mobility for an animal is crippling in every sense, unlike with humans who have a great capacity to adapt. An animal that has lost function in both legs will need to have constant assistance throughout his life. Despite knowing this, the doctors were unwilling to give up on Blacky as something drove them to keep on trying.
Blacky’s medical treatment was arduous and there were truly times when it seemed to be going nowhere. Even with regular exercises, heat, and hydro therapy, Blacky showed almost no improvement for the longest time. But when he finally stood on his own paws after almost six months of treatment, Blacky proved that the doctors were right to not give up! Blacky was later adopted by Shane’s aunt and has now regained even more mobility while living with his new family. We are told he is sometimes even too active, chasing squirrels and mice in the garden, enjoying every second of his new lease on life! Sri Lanka is home to thousands of dogs like Blacky, who face sickness, disease and disablement, but it is unlikely that many of them have the same fortune that Blacky did. Sometimes all you need to do to save a life is to stop, take notice, and do something. Everyone can help an animal in need, no matter who they are or where they come from. You may not be able to help millions, but you can significantly change the life of one. And for Blacky, that one life was everything. EMBARK | 23
Blacky at his new home. Alert, active and happy - Aug 2012
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Embark works closely with three veterinary hospitals and the care given by them has been instrumental in improving the well-being of many a street dog. If you have any animal-related queries that go beyond our line of work, here are their numbers.
PET VET CLINIC COLOMBO
Contact: Rasha Yusuf E-mail: petvetclinic.mail@gmail.com Tel: 2599 799
BEST CARE ANIMAL HOSPITAL COLOMBO Contact: Thusira Soorasena E-mail: bestcareanimal@gmail.com Tel: 773 400 800
RAJAGIRIYA VETERINARY CLINIC COLOMBO Contact: S. S. Gallage E-mail: ssudarshanag@live.com Tel: 714 682 307
ELECTRONIC MEDIA PARTNER
CONTACT US
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