Wonderful that volunteers come together to help animals

Our readers have their say on what needs to be done to help animals, what Iran's next move might be, and the travails of losing weight

UMM ALQUWAIN, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - at the Stray Dog Centre, Umm AL Quwain. Ruel Pableo for The National for Evelyn Lau's story

With reference to Gillian Duncan's article Stray Dogs Centre in Umm Al Quwain saved after appeal to help clear its bills (January 5): great news. I hope the public supports the rescue groups with cats and dogs too.

Lorraine Ludman, Dubai

It’s wonderful that the community came together to save the shelter.

Clare Tasker, Dubai

God bless those people who care and help.

Brianito Vergara, Dubai

Great news. However let’s not forget this shelter survives on donations only. They can be in the same situation again. That is why it is really important to support them regularly.

Petra Gremlin, Bali

Iran has supported extremism for some time now: what’s next?

With regard to Khaled Yacoub Oweis and Ben Farmer's article Who is Esmail Qaani, the new Iranian elite force commander? (January 3): Iran has been disturbing the world by fighting, playing hide and seek and supporting extremism. We will see Iran's capability now in how the react to recent losses. Are they only good for creating chaos, intimidation and terror?

Rod Liboon, Dubai

Needed: a healthy diet, daily exercise and a lot of motivation

With reference to Nick Webster's report UAE school teacher pleads for help for obesity surgery (January 5): She won't be able to control her hunger till she uses her body's insulin wisely. And for that she needs to exercise regularly and eat healthy.

Aia Baloshi, Dubai

A dietician and personal trainer would serve her well. Also maybe a therapist to change her mindset about food.

Kristin Fucik, Dubai

I do feel for her. Once your body is used to a certain weight it’s easy to not be mindful.

A hormonal issue is even worse. But asking for a handout for something that you have the power to do yourself is not right.

Maybe if she was asking for a loan or a payment plan that would be acceptable, or even just for help from someone who could teach her how to cook healthy, prep meals in advance or plan a day to include a workout – even at work, at your desk.

A motivated person would be able to save for the surgery. Instead of buying fast food after work, keep that amount for the surgery. That would be maybe Dh40 a day. In a year the amount could be enough for the surgery. And if she sticks to a plan, maybe she wouldn’t need it.

Nadia Akwal, Kuala Lumpur