In the heart of Serbia, Dejan Gacic has spent over 20 years rescuing and protecting animals. Alongside his late mother, Svetlana, they started with small acts of kindness, leading to the founding of the Vucjak Shelter in 1997.
Now, this refuge houses over a thousand dogs, cats, and even wolves, each with a tale of survival. Despite challenges, Dejan’s dedication showcases the lasting connection between humanity and the animal kingdom.
Meet Dejan, the heart and soul of Vucjak Shelter’s mission to save lives
Image credits: vucjakshelter
Image credits: vucjakshelter
Image credits: vucjakshelter
In the village of Cumic, Serbia, Dejan and his late mother, Svetlana, embarked on a mission that would change the lives of over a thousand animals
Image credits: vucjakshelter
They started feeding stray dogs in the village more than 20 years ago
Image credits: vucjakshelter
Image credits: vucjakshelter
People in the area saw Dejan and his mom helping animals, so they asked them to save a captive wolf
Image credits: vucjakshelter
The person who had the wolf was going to let it go for a hunting game, where hunters and dogs would chase it. Dejan bought the wolf with just one bottle of liquor and kept it safe in his basement.
In 1997, Dejan and Svetlana started Vucjak Shelter. When his mom passed away, Dejan kept the shelter going all by himself
Image credits: vucjakshelter
He began with a tiny sanctuary
Image credits: vucjakshelter
But as time passed, the number of dogs grew to over a thousand animals
Image credits: vucjakshelter
Image credits: vucjakshelter