Cuban veterinarian running an animal shelter in the United States: "They all arrive due to abandonment or illness."

Cuban veterinarian in Nevada, she runs Second Chance Farm, a self-funded shelter for animals rescued from abandonment and illness, promoting responsible adoptions.

Cuban Veterinary MedicinePhoto © Instagram Yaileny Selema Sánchez (@secondchancefarm_)

In the midst of the arid landscape of Pahrump, an hour from Las Vegas, the Cuban veterinarian Yaileny Selema has turned her home into a sanctuary for animals rescued from abandonment and illness.

Second Chance Farm offers a second chance to horses, donkeys, goats, pigs, cows, dogs, cats, and even turtles, all rescued from abusive environments or serious medical conditions.

"All the animals that are with me came here because they were abandoned or because they were sick," explains the young veterinarian, who is fully self-funding this project alongside her partner, also Cuban.

Both work full-time to afford the care of over 30 animals, without receiving any kind of profit in return.

For the past eight years, Yaileny has dedicated her days to rescue and rehabilitation, supported by a loyal community that follows her work on social media.

Sometimes, the rescued animals are given up for responsible adoption, but many others remain in the sanctuary due to their old age or chronic health conditions.

“This is a refuge of love, not of commerce,” he asserts. His story has touched thousands of people around the world, especially other Cubans, who find in it inspiration, pride, and hope.

From Nevada, this Cuban shows that protecting the most vulnerable is also a way to build a better world.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Second Chance Farm Animal Shelter in Nevada

What is Second Chance Farm and who runs it?

Second Chance Farm is a sanctuary for animals rescued from abandonment and illness, run by Cuban veterinarian Yaileny Selema in Pahrump, Nevada. This self-funded refuge provides a second chance to various animals, such as horses, donkeys, pigs, dogs, and cats, offering them a safe home and medical care.

How is the Second Chance Farm shelter funded?

The Second Chance Farm shelter is self-funded by Yaileny Selema and her partner, who work full-time to cover the costs of caring for more than 30 animals. They do not receive financial profit, and their work is supported by an active community on social media that follows and shares their efforts.

What happens to the animals rescued at Second Chance Farm?

The rescued animals at Second Chance Farm can be adopted if they are in suitable and responsible conditions. However, many remain at the sanctuary due to their advanced age or chronic health issues that require ongoing care.

What impact does Yaileny Selema's work have on the Cuban community in exile?

Yaileny Selema's work has touched the lives of thousands, especially other Cubans in exile, who see in her a source of inspiration and hope. Her dedication to rescuing vulnerable animals demonstrates that a better world can be built through the protection of the most defenseless, and her story has become an example of love and sacrifice.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.