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Silja Schiller-Moumtzidis: Zero Stray Pawject

by | Apr 15, 2024

Innovating with Prevention to Manage Strays Humanely

This podcast episode features Silja Schiller-Moumtzidis, the founder of the Zero Stray Pawject, discussing the unique approach of her nonprofit organization in addressing the stray dog and cat crisis. Shifting from traditional methods to a focus on prevention, the Pawject collaborates with local municipalities, governments, and the police to implement systematic solutions aimed at reducing the number of stray animals. The conversation covers the origins of the Zero Stray Pawject, its evolution from providing shelter solutions to implementing comprehensive programs like microchipping and neutering campaigns, and its impact on Greek municipalities. It also touches on the challenges and successes of the project, the importance of legislation and education in promoting responsible pet ownership, and the plans for future expansion and sustainability.

Video and Audio Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to the Zero Stray Pawject
01:29 Mission and Vision of Zero Stray Pawject
02:51 Origin Story
04:21 Challenges and Strategies in Prevention
07:14 Successes, Impact of Systematic Approaches
16:48 Role of Municipalities/Owners in Prevention
27:43 Scaling: Plans and Fundraising Challenges
33:55 Leadership Advice for Nonprofit Founders
35:39 How to Support Zero Stray Pawject

Audio Only -- Silja Schiller-Moumtzidis, Zero Stray Pawject

Silja Schiller-Moumtzidis

Silja Schiller-Moumtzidis and her husband Theo co-founded Zero Stray Pawject in 2016, which works to systematically eradicate the problem of stray dogs and cats by addressing root causes through prevention. They collaborate with national and local and governments to design programs that encourage responsible pet ownership.  Silja serves as the CEO.  Silja and Theo are business professionals with a combined over 50 years of experience in public health, the pharmaceutical industry, banking, management consulting and the pet care industry, and decided to develop what could become a systematic end-to-end solution to the stray problem in communities where it is applied.  Silja’s LinkedIn Profile.

Learn more about The Zero Stray Pawject and Silja Schiller-Moumtzidis