Nora Portela, a life dedicated to animals
Aliento de Vida Animal
@AlientodeVidaAnimal
Nora Portela is a national reference in Argentina for animal love, respect, and commitment. Today, we want you to meet this ARISTOPETER, because her life, dedicated to animals body and soul since she stepped off the runways (she was one of Argentina's fashion icons in the 80s), is both touching and inspiring. Nora gave up everything for love. For the love of animals.
—You've always loved animals. But one day, you decided to make that love your way of life. Tell us about that turning point.
—How many animals currently live with you?
I live with 40 animals, including dogs, cats, pigeons, etc.
—What is your protocol when you welcome a new animal into your home?
As soon as I locate a needy animal and rescue it, I first separate it to observe its behavior and treat its wounds, then I reintegrate it based on how it progresses.
—How do you organize yourself to ensure they are all well-fed, clean, etc.?
I start with one, and then move on to those who are at hand or need it most, because they got muddy, or have fleas, etc. I divide the food into portions and give it to them once a day, and to those with problems, as many times as necessary.
—What challenges have you faced since dedicating your life to animals? What have you given up for this way of life?
I have given up frivolous things, and often people don't understand the love and respect I feel for animals. This implies maximum commitment, 24/7; so I can travel little and attend only essential events.
—In Spain, maintaining a dog costs an average of 700 euros per year. How do you manage to care for so many animals? Does any public or private entity help you in any way? Do you receive help from volunteers or collaborators?
I house the 40 animals in my home, and my priority, now that my daughters are independent, has become maintaining all this infrastructure to assist them and pay taxes. And "my kids." Sometimes, good-hearted people donate food, but it's infrequent.
I have the support of some veterinarians who help me, but supplies and extra care are always needed for those who are sicker.
—What would you say to those who are thinking of getting a pet?
First, RESPECT AND RESPONSIBILITY. They should consider that it is a lifelong commitment, that life changes for the better but also changes how you organize yourself. Vacations can no longer be spontaneous, or at least you have to take into account the organization of another being to take them. You have to be attentive because that being will depend on what you give it: love, food, water, attention, games, care, etc. If they destroy your garden, your shoes, or if the food is expensive, it is not something that can be returned like clothes you don't like. They need to know that it is a pact of LOVE and it is for life.
—What is the status of pets in Argentina? What has changed since you started your journey as an animal protector?
People are becoming more aware and involved. But cruelty still predominates at all social levels.
—What do you think is the most urgent reform or law Argentina needs regarding animals?
Re-education and castration. Especially for males, who cause more havoc.
—What would you say to those who justify passivity in the face of the poor situation of animals, saying there are "more pressing problems"?
That each of us can help from our place, and things can improve towards a more respectful and evolved world.
—Your daughter, Chloé Bello, whom we interviewed a few months ago, has followed in your footsteps in the fashion world and it seems, as far as her work allows, also in her love for animals. She is inseparable from Petunia, her adorable dog with whom we photographed her. Have you consciously instilled this love, or do you think she "simply" internalized your way of life?
I have instilled love and respect in my two daughters and anyone close to me.
—What would you like your shelter to become in the future?
Many people getting involved and spreading the same responsibility and love that I give. It's a wonderful exercise, and what comes back cannot be bought anywhere.
—Tell us about "Aliento de vida animal." How did it come about, what is its vision, its values?
ALIENTO DE VIDA ANIMAL... it originated when I was little, I dreamed of living surrounded by animals.
In a way, it happened. But time passed, and I thought, instead of people congratulating me or saying how crazy I am! Or how I'm letting my life slip away... I'm going to start spreading my experience, and let more people have the opportunity to enjoy the "GIFT" I have, but we can all awaken it. It's a direct line to the soul, and the gratitude you receive from a look or a lick fills all the holes you might have in your heart.
—What would you say to someone who is unsure whether to collaborate with your organization or another?
To investigate my life. It's a daily and transparent struggle. There's a great effort and fight behind everything I achieve. But there are also many bad people who used suffering for profit, and they ask through a bank account, and those animals, the backstory is painful, and they receive nothing of what they claim, and they use them to fill their pockets and change their houses, buy luxurious cars, travel. Or appear in magazines.
—A "battle cry" for ARISTOPETERS.
Having an animal, taking care of it, being responsible is a pact of LOVE and it is for life, it is a direct line to the soul, and the gratitude you receive from a look or a lick fills all the holes you might have in your heart.
Always respect and help animals.
To collaborate with ALIENTO DE VIDA ANIMAL
Contact this email: noraportela@yahoo.com.ar