Mrasni Lapichki Foundation (pronounced MRAHS-nee LAH-pee-chkee, meaning “Dirty Paws”) is a volunteer-led nonprofit organization based in Kyustendil, Bulgaria, working toward the sustainable reduction of stray animal populations.
We address the issue systemically — not through isolated rescue efforts, but by tackling the root causes of stray animal overpopulation.
Our work focuses on prevention through free spay and neuter programs, promoting responsible pet ownership, supporting the adoption of rescued animals, raising public awareness, and partnering actively with the local institutions and community.
We fund our activities through targeted campaigns and donations, complemented by the sale of handmade and volunteer-donated products at our online store and charitable bazaars.
Evelina
I have always had a deep love for animals, which guided my educational path from an early age. I graduated from the Veterinary Medicine Technical School in Stara Zagora, where I developed my initial knowledge and interest in animal care. Later, I broadened my academic focus and continued my studies in economics and international business.
Professionally, I work in the light manufacturing industry, where I currently serve as a Production Coordinator. My role requires strong organizational skills, responsibility, and the ability to communicate and coordinate effectively across different teams.
By combining practical experience with my educational background, I strive for continuous growth and professional development.
Lyubomira
A large part of my professional experience was gained in corporate environments, but at one point I realized that the child within me mattered more than anything else. I left that path and became self-employed, which allows me to make toys and devote myself to the mission closest to my heart – helping voiceless angels find their way.
I strongly believe that with honesty, hard work, and persistence, the day will come when Bulgaria becomes the place that the animals living here truly deserve.
I am a volunteer with my whole being, dedicating my time and energy to the animals.
Stanimira
Many years of working in the service industry allowed me to gain extensive experience working with people and finding ways to connect with them. But it turned out that my heart was pulling me in a different direction, and together with my family and friends, I dedicate my time to the cause of reducing the population of stray animals.
I believe with all my heart that everyone deserves their own place under the sun and a life lived with dignity.
Elina
I have nearly 15 years of experience in the field of human resources, but one of my most important personal causes has always been the protection of animals. Compassion and care for them are a natural reflection of my values.
I am a volunteer because I believe in active engagement and leading by example. I believe that through conscious effort we can change public attitudes, build a more compassionate society, and protect those who have no voice.
Mission
To work toward the long-term and sustainable reduction of stray animal populations by addressing the root causes of the problem rather than its consequences. We believe in prevention, responsible pet ownership, and adoption as effective solutions, and in active partnership with institutions and civil society as the key to meaningful and lasting change.
Vision
We strive for a Bulgaria where every municipality has a functioning system for population control and care of stray animals — supported by clear laws and procedures, an active civil society, and a significantly reduced number of abandoned animals.
Actions
How we put our mission into practice:
– We work in partnership with institutions and local communities to achieve long-term solutions through dialogue, coordination, and shared responsibility.
– We monitor and analyze the local stray animal population through reports from citizens, social media, and direct contact, with a focus on unneutered animals and high-risk cases.
– We respond to urgent situations by providing veterinary assistance and making decisions in line with our real capacity and available resources.
– We work purposefully toward spay and neuter prevention by informing, advising, and assisting people in taking responsible action.
– We inform and shift public attitudes through educational materials, public discussions, and active communication with local media.
Principles
We operate on a simple principle: we are not afraid to do the difficult work that actually solves the problem. We are not here for drama. We are not here for empty promises. We are here for action, results, and long-term change.
In our organization:
– We don’t treat symptoms. We address the root cause.
– We don’t just bark. We act — with initiative, planning, clear processes, and measurable results.
– Partnerships instead of conflict: institutions are part of the solution, not the “enemy.”
– Empathy with discipline: we are compassionate, but not chaotic.
– Transparency and accountability: we show where resources go and what impact they create
The Problem
The issue of stray animals is not the result of a lack of care, but of the absence of a functioning system that is applied consistently.
Key gaps:
– There is a legal framework, but it is not applied consistently or in a timely manner
– Effective preventive measures and a long-term strategy are missing
– There is a lack of coordination between responsible institutions
– Oversight is largely formal and insufficient, with no real consequences for violations
– Abandonment and violence against animals often go without consequences
Result:
The problem continues to reproduce itself again and again, while the burden falls on individual citizens and volunteers instead of being addressed through a systematic solution.