In one of her most recent videos posted on TikTok, the Cuban Yaileny Selema, founder of the animal sanctuary Second Chance Farm in Nevada, shared the rescue of a dog that appeared, seemingly out of nowhere, while she was on her way to help another animal.
“We found him in the middle of nowhere, with injured little legs. We gave him water; he was very nervous, running around,” the young woman recounted while showing the frightened animal, unable to fully trust, but with hope reflected in his eyes.
The most unexpected thing happened when a police patrol appeared. “The police arrived and told us to do whatever we wanted with the dog,” he recounted. A phrase that may sound indifferent, but in the U.S. context, where stray animals often end up in municipal shelters with no guarantee of survival, it represented an opportunity to save a life.
Yaileny, who has been dedicating her life to rescuing abandoned animals for over eight years, has managed to turn a piece of the Nevada desert into a home for those without a voice. From arthritic horses to donkeys rescued from slaughterhouses, her nonprofit shelter houses more than 30 animals that have experienced abandonment, illness, and abuse.
“All the animals that are with me came because they were abandoned or sick,” he has said on several occasions. Through social media, he has documented each story of pain transformed into hope, and has managed to inspire thousands both on the island and beyond.
Stories like that of Alfredito the little donkey, rescued just two days after being born, adopted, seriously ill, and saved after several plasma transfusions, or that of Oscar, the orphaned piglet, reflect a calling that goes beyond any economic calculations.
“This is a refuge of love, not of commerce”, she asserts firmly. She and her partner, who is also Cuban, sustain this project through their daily work, without receiving any financial benefits. Their motivation is nothing other than love for the most vulnerable beings.
The video of the rescued puppy has once again struck a chord. Because behind that wounded animal, there is something much bigger: the story of a Cuban who, far from her homeland, continues to defend the value of life with tenacity, passion, and heart.
Frequently Asked Questions about Animal Rescue at Second Chance Farm
Who is Yaileny Selema and what is her work in Nevada?
Yaileny Selema is a Cuban veterinarian who has dedicated her life to rescuing and caring for abandoned animals in the Nevada desert through her sanctuary, Second Chance Farm. This sanctuary provides a second chance to animals such as horses, donkeys, pigs, and more, rescued from conditions of abuse or severe illness.
How is the Second Chance Farm sanctuary funded?
The Second Chance Farm sanctuary is completely self-funded by Yaileny Selema and her partner. They both work full-time to cover the care of more than 30 rescued animals, without receiving any financial gain in return.
What is the story of the puppy rescued by Yaileny Selema?
Yaileny Selema rescued a dog with injured paws while heading to assist another animal. The dog was found in a remote area and, after receiving permission from the police, was taken to her sanctuary. This rescue is one of many she carries out in her mission to save vulnerable animals.
How has Yaileny Selema's work impacted the community?
The work of Yaileny Selema has inspired thousands of people both inside and outside of Cuba, demonstrating how love and compassion can transform lives. Her efforts have resonated deeply and created an active community that supports her cause through donations and sharing on social media.
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