THE ALL TOO OFTEN OVERLOOKED ANIMALS
CANCUN DOG RESCUER SAVED CHICA
PART 6, LAST IN THE SERIES “MEXICO’S STREET DOG HEROES”
Have you ever researched “Cancún dog rescue” and seen “Cancún dog rescuer saved Chica”? Well, I’m Chica, Chica the Mexican Doberman survivor. The rescuer is Héctor, my dad. And I must include Carla, because she’s my mom and loves us both very much! Well, daddy and I have lots to tell you, so please, please stick around to hear the whole story.
A Team Of Two
So, you just read Chica’s introduction to this blog which is the last in a six-part series. It mentions some of the heroes who work with street dogs in a specific area of south-east Mexico.
What I intend to do here is point out that not all rescues and rescuers work alike. But they do have a common goal. They all strive to serve the animals in a region where the human population is struggling with severe economic hardship. These heroic people work separately, but together, to make meaningful and lasting change where it is so desperately needed.
A DIFFERENT KIND OF RESCUE MODEL
The First To Be Saved
First there was Chuchis, a pit bull, heart worm positive, on death row at the local pound. Then came Akela, a Mexican Hairless that was going to be donated to a zoo. Next there was Tasha, a Doberman puppy kept at a warehouse where Héctor was shopping. And then followed Charlie (named posthumously), who he picked up off the street but, sadly, died the same day.
The dogs I just mentioned were adopted by Héctor and his wife Carla and welcomed into their own home, regardless of expense. And let’s not forget that when an animal is suffering from neglect, medical treatment can often be very costly.
Further on, you will hear Chica’s story, one of abuse and a future of certain death. However, because she is alive, Chica the Mexican Doberman survivor educates, advocates and shares her aspirations.
Small Is Mighty And Full Of Heart
Héctor Navarro, the Cancún dog rescuer who saved Chica, talks to PetPeevesUnmasked, and explains his work. “I rescue but I am not really a rescue (organization). It’s only when the situation is too dire or when I run across a dog in danger that I will take it in. Mostly I provide support for several different rescues and rescuers.”
Together with his wife Carla, this small-scale effort is measured, effective and admired by all who know them. However, their work is not without its stressful moments when critical situations present themselves.
As you will have noticed, this couple has adopted a limited number of dogs they themselves have rescued. In addition to that, however, the couple will also foster an animal until it can be placed safely elsewhere. This will occur only when an exceptional case needs to be dealt with urgently.
“Sometimes I help catch dogs, take them to get medical treatment, and pick up and deliver supplies,” Héctor explains. On top of this, he obtains medical certificates for canines to travel abroad. abroad. And, quite often, he will also transport them to the airport for flights up north.
CHICA THE MEXICAN DOBERMAN SURVIVOR
Chica’s Story Retold
Let me mention something really quite significant. If it weren’t for these three people, Chica’s story would have had a very different outcome. But fate brought them together. In 2012, this eight-month-old Doberman was rescued from a horrible situation. She couldn’t eat, couldn’t drink, and couldn’t regulate her body temperature, all because she couldn’t open her mouth. It had been taped shut! Moreover, she couldn’t even cry out for help. Miraculously, though, some very caring and determined citizens saved her. And, because of their actions, this pup has been enjoying an amazing life ever since.
It turns out that a very concerned neighbor had observed the situation and attempted to rescue her. She climbed over the fence of the property where Chica was, but got caught. However, she managed to take a photo and posted it on Facebook hoping that someone would help.
Social Media’s Uniting Force
At the time, Héctor and Carla were talking about adopting another Doberman. Then, when his wife went out of town for a few days, he decided to search for one on the internet. That’s when he came across the photo of Chica and a desperate plea from the anonymous neighbor. After hours of researching and emailing, Héctor was getting nowhere. There was an obstacle slowing down the rescue. Cancún (south-east Mexico) is 1,400 miles away from where Chica was located in Tepic, in the state of Nayarit (north-west Mexico). So, what did he do then? He got on a plane!
The Tepic Connection
When Héctor arrived in Tepic he was introduced to Miguel Dibildox, a Scout leader who provided medical attention to rescue dogs. Dibildox knew of the woman who had tried to rescue Chica. He got a name and a number, and Héctor made the call.
Fernanda Janine Luna answered the phone, agreed to go to the property and offer money to the abusers in exchange for the release of their dog. Several hours later, Héctor got the call he’d been anxiously waiting for. Chica was safe!
CHICA HAS A MESSAGE FOR THE WORLD
What Happened To Me
I was still a puppy when I was punished. My “guardians” didn’t play with me. They never taught me good manners, or show me what not to do. That day, I just wanted to have a little fun and grabbed some laundry that was drying on the clothesline in the yard. You see, puppies are very active and have a lot of energy. How could I possibly know that was wrong?
Now comes the sad part. Instead of applying what doggy experts call positive reinforcement, they punished and sentenced me to a slow, agonizing death. You see, these angry, ignorant humans grabbed a roll of duct tape and wrapped it around my mouth. But I am Chica and, as you already know, I am Chica the Mexican Doberman survivor.
I’m On A Mission
My mission in life is to raise awareness to make animal abuse a thing of the past. Together with my mom and dad, I help rescue abused animals and educate people so we can end their suffering. By following my story and spreading the word, you too are part of a movement to rescue other abused doggies.
What I Enjoy Most
- Going to the beach.
- Having fun with my brothers and sisters.
- Making friends and meeting nice people.
- Helping doggies, rescues, organizations, local shelters, and anyone I can.
- Ice cream, but don’t tell anybody!
The Canine Messenger
Only someone who has been abused knows what that really feels like. Others can be sorry, even horrified, but the experience is everything. I am safe and happy now but many are not. I am counting on all of you to act and do what it takes to change lives…our lives!
Follow me on Facebook: www.facebook.com/chicathedoberman
Follow me on Twitter: twitter.com/ChicaDoberman
To help Chica with her mission, you can do the following. Go to http://www.chicathedoberman.org and click on the HELP tab to learn how to buy a digital portrait of your own pet. By doing so, you will help offset some of the expenses the Navarro family incurs in doing what they do for the animals.
To Sum Up
Here are the people who deserve credit for the efforts described in this week’s blog. They are the heroes. Thank you for what you do!
– Héctor Navarro, Carla Cabrera, Chica and her fellow canine team members who help the other rescue animals they meet
– Fernanda Janine Luna
– Miguel Dibildox
I hope you’ve enjoyed this journey into Mexico these past few weeks. Please drop me a line if you have suggestions for other stories you’d like me to cover on this blog site. Thanks for being here.
The Complete Series
Just before I go, if you missed any of the articles in this series, here’s your chance to catch up now.
Part 1 – MEXICO’S STREET DOG HEROES
https://petpeevesunmasked.com/mexicos-street-dog-heroes/
Part 2 – DOG HOUSES SHELTER MEXICO’S PETS
https://petpeevesunmasked.com/dog-houses-shelter-Mexico’s-pets/
Part 3 – VETERINARY MEDICINE IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN
https://petpeevesunmasked.com/veterinary-medicine-in-Playa-del-Carmen/
Part 4 – TULUM’S TIRELESS ANIMAL ADVOCATES
https://petpeevesunmasked.com/tulums-tireless-animal-advocates/
Part 5 – CANADIANS ADOPT HOMELESS MEXICAN PUPPIES
https://petpeevesunmasked.com/canadians-adopt-homeless-mexican-puppies/
Part 6 – CANCUN DOG RESCUER SAVED CHICA
https://petpeevesunmasked.com/cancun-dog-rescuer-saved-chica/
Together, let’s keep our precious pets healthy, happy and safe!
CANADIANS ADOPT HOMELESS MEXICAN PUPPIES
PART 5 IN THE SERIES “MEXICO’S STREET DOG HEROES”
She Came South, They Went North
When it comes to why and how Canadians adopt homeless Mexican puppies, there’s nobody better to talk to. It so happens that Alison Sawyer is a Toronto native, and a potter by profession. However, after vacationing on Isla Mujeres, which is close to Cancún, she decided to move permanently to Mexico.
However, soon after relocating, she became increasingly concerned about the plight of street dogs on the island. In fact, there was a defining moment when she knew she had to step up and do something about it. And, as you are about to see, the rest is history.
What Isla Animals Does
“We specialize in puppies,” said Sawyer, founder and operator of Isla Animals, a non-profit with its own shelter.
She explained that her partner Trina, and Anna, who is the adoption/transport coordinator, are the only two constant volunteers. However, the other people who help out tend to come and go. Nevertheless, in addition to them, there is a staff of four women who clean and watch over the rescue.
Next, we delve into the key details of why and how the compassionate people just mentioned here do what they do.
HOW ISLA ANIMALS TACKLES THE ISSUES
In just a moment we’ll discuss flight arrangements for Mexican homeless dogs Canada-bound. But, we need to look at the underlying factors that trigger this need for advocacy work in the first place.
Overpopulation
As a result of hard work over a period of 16 years, the feral and street dog population on the island is mostly solved. However, efforts now focus on owners who allow their dogs to wander the streets.
But there is another side to this story as Sawyer explained. “Last July I took with me to Toronto a dog we named Olive. She was in a group of five; two adult dogs and three puppies. We think that they were dumped here from Cancún. This happens all the time. People can’t help a dog but want it in a safer location. For example, a place where there is less traffic.” She added that, sadly, one of the adults and a pup were in such bad shape they didn’t make it.
Spay And Neuter
Like everyone else I spoke to for my research, sterilization is the top priority of animal rescue groups. “The best way to solve dog overpopulation is to prevent them from being born in the first place. But, as part of that, we also never leave a puppy on the streets,” Sawyer emphasized.
In 2016, Isla Animals performed free surgeries on 1,784 cats and dogs, and 1,766 in 2017. And, as the above table shows, the 2018 number was 2,028. This is nearly a 15 percent increase over the previous year. Most encouraging, it shows the determination to reach more towns and neighborhoods in the future.
Sheltering And Fostering
Fortunately, Isla Animals enjoys a good relationship with the current local government. It has also provided the location where their rescue shelter operates. Sawyer commented that they have fosters who take in puppies until they have been vaccinated. And, since the shelter is not set up for large dogs, they are able to care for more smaller-sized animals.
Networking
Working closely with other reputable rescue organizations has proved extremely beneficial. Isla Animals is able to trade rides for adopted and rescued animals. Besides, they also exchange dogs for puppies which, as we already know, is what they specialize in.
And, this brings us to their partnership with Lost Dog Foundation, which I happened to mention in my previous blog. A great part of their work focuses on facilitating the journey of Mexican homeless dogs Canada-bound and US-bound. Pups will either be flying directly to their waiting adoptive family or to temporary foster homes.
FLYING DOGS FROM MEXICO TO THE USA AND CANADA
So, now we come to a segment that is designed to help Americans and Canadians adopt homeless Mexican puppies.
These are people who are visiting Mexico, or planning to make a trip there from either the USA or Canada. For them the vacation may not only encompass the activities that tourists typically do. Quite possibly they will want to fly back home with a dog or a puppy from Mexico. So, the guide below is a basic must-do check list. It’s especially helpful since it indicates what they need to do before they consider importing a pet.
Why Adopt From Abroad?
Perhaps some of my readers are wondering why tourists from other countries would want to adopt an animal from Mexico. You’re probably thinking there are already many dogs at home waiting to be placed with a forever family.
Well, let me say that Canadian and US residents do realize that. However, they are also aware that opportunities for adult dogs and puppies to find loving homes are far more limited in Mexico. Consequently, when the opportunity arises, they willingly go through the process to take a homeless pup back with them.
Rules, Regulations And Recommendations
Here is the information that Isla Animals gives out to all potential adopters.
First you need to make sure that your airline will take pets, either in with the luggage or inside the cabin. This depends on the size of the animal.
Then you have to find a vet who will vaccinate your dog for canine parvovirus, distemper and rabies. The vet will also make you a health certificate for Customs.
Your dog needs to have had its rabies shot one month before departure.
The dog also has to look health. If it has a lot of skin issues, they won’t let it in.
You will need a carrier, either a hard one for the cargo hold, or a soft one for inside the plane. It has to be the kind that the airline accepts. If you are buying one it will usually say if it’s airline approved
Be sure to make a reservation with your airline ahead of time.
Also ensure that whatever transportation you arrange to get to the airport will allow animals in their vans or taxis.
Good luck!
Follow Isla Animals on Facebook: www.facebook.com/IslaAnimals
To make a donation, please email:
http://islaanimals.org/help/donate-animal-rescue-isla-animals.html
To Sum Up
Here are some of the people who deserve credit for the efforts described in this week’s blog. They are the heroes. Thank you for what you do!
- Isla Animals: Alison Sawyer, Trina, Anna, 4-team shelter staff, and all their volunteers
- Lost Dog Foundation
- All non-profit partners in Mexico, USA and Canada
- All fosters, sponsors and donors
- The municipal government of Isla Mujeres
Don’t forget to join us next week in Cancún, our final destination on this eye-opening journey. You’ll meet a very special girl called Chica and her dad, mom and orphaned siblings. See you there!
Together, let’s keep our precious pets healthy, happy and safe!
The Complete Series
In case you missed any of the other articles in this series of six, here’s your chance to catch up now.
MEXICO’S STREET DOG HEROES
https://petpeevesunmasked.com/mexicos-street-dog-heroes/
DOG HOUSES SHELTER MEXICO’S PETS
https://petpeevesunmasked.com/dog-houses-shelter-Mexico’s-pets/
VETERINARY MEDICINE IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN https://petpeevesunmasked.com/veterinary-medicine-in-Playa-del-Carmen/
TULUM’S TIRELESS ANIMAL ADVOCATES https://petpeevesunmasked.com/tulums-tireless-animal-advocates/
CANCUN DOG RESCUER SAVED CHICA https://petpeevesunmasked.com/cancun-dog-rescuer-saved-chica/
TULUM’S TIRELESS ANIMAL ADVOCATES
PART 4 IN THE SERIES “MEXICO’S STREET DOG HEROES”
Today it’s our turn to introduce you to some of Tulum’s tireless animal advocates. The region needs them desperately because this popular tourist destination on Mexico’s Riviera Maya has serious problems. It’s unfortunate and sad to say that they are caused by the vast number of dogs that roam the streets.
HELP TULUM DOGS
Messaging And Goals
Co-founded by Lisa Edwards and Cathy Cairelli, Help Tulum Dogs is an organization with the following mission. It aims to better serve local residents by promoting the welfare of the canines that live among them. This includes the dogs in their care in addition to homeless ones that live on the streets. Not surprisingly, this non-profit operates solely on donations and volunteer work. Furthermore, it also relies on generously discounted medical attention provided by local veterinarians.
“We have a huge dog overpopulation. Unfortunately, that becomes even more problematic because the predominantly Mayan community has limited education and financial means,” Edwards explains. “Our principle goal is to sterilize the majority of dogs here, however, this is definitely a long-term process.” She added that what they are able to accomplish depends on the generosity of their dedicated Tulum animal welfare supporters.
Reducing The Numbers Humanely
In the second half of 2018, Help Tulum Dogs held a weekend-long spay/neuter clinic that was very well attended. As a result, the number of animals that were sterilized, and also dewormed, totaled 302!
Not A Single Shelter
Now let me point out that Tulum does not have any shelters. However, the residents step up and do whatever they can to alleviate the suffering of its countless homeless pets. “In the past we’ve tried to put out water buckets for dogs on the street, but they’ve been stolen,” Edwards explained. “Feeders weren’t a success either. Things quickly get moldy in this tropical environment and then we worry about people poisoning the dogs. Sadly this is a reality here.”
Ava was picked up off the streets in really bad shape by Help Tulum Dogs 
Amazing how this same dog flew off to a new life, in a new country
Flying To Foster Thanks To Lost Dog Foundation
Firstly, I’d like to mention that here is a topic that’s simply not getting the attention it deserves. And, although this is just an introduction, I will be mentioning it again in next week’s article.
Lost Dog Foundation (LDF) is a US registered charity started by Lisa Edwards. Most significantly, they rescue dogs from high kill shelters and other hopeless situations in Mexico and the United States. In addition to that, the canines then fly to the safety of foster homes in other US locations as well as Canada. Also, because LDF has developed an amazing network of foster families, they can match dogs with people looking to adopt. Over 600 adult dogs and puppies have been placed in homes in a period of just seven years. Now, that is quite an achievement!
Follow Help Tulum Dogs on Facebook: www.facebook.com/helptulumdogs
To donate, foster or adopt, please email: helpmexicandogs@hotmail.com
ALMA ANIMAL TULUM
An Animal’s Soul
In 2018, after ten years working towards a common goal, a small group of volunteers filed for legal status. The decision to officially comply with Quintana Roo state’s law that applies to animal protection and wellbeing was a sound one. That’s because Alma (Spanish for “soul”) Animal Tulum can now receive monetary donations to boost its support base.
Maribel Cruz is one of the original rescuers who strive to improve the lives of sick, abused and homeless dogs and cats. “We do our best but wish we could do more. Either we don’t have the financial resources or we are unable to house them,” she says. The fact is that hardly any residents are able to foster these animals until they can go to permanent homes.
Dedicated Tulum Animal Welfare Supporters
As you’ll have noticed from previous articles in this series, educating the local community is an ongoing effort. Also, it is very time-consuming. Nevertheless, the tireless animal advocates of Tulum know that it is the only way to bring about change. Two of the important areas they deal with are curbing the birth rate and keeping the animals parasite-free.
Anti-Parasite Initiative
Working together with the local health department, AAT helped organize the first anti-parasite event ever held here. By providing antiparasitic medications for dogs and cats, their human caregivers can also stay healthy. And, let’s remember the veterinarians who donate their time at these events to support animal welfare in Tulum.
Spay And Neuter Campaigns
Although not directly involved in organizing them, AAT volunteers always participate in municipal canine and feline spay/neuter events. Encouragingly, more and more families bring their pets for this no-charge service. And, furthermore, AAT also takes animals off the streets so they can be sterilized, too.
Social Media Works
Nowadays, having a social media presence is a vital part of rescuing. Personally, I receive all AAT’s Facebook notifications. That way I am up-to-date on lost and found cases, veterinary interventions, adoption success stories, fundraisers and so on. This is definitely hard work, but very necessary for any animal rescue organization to be successful.
Raising Child Awareness
AAT realizes the importance of reaching out to children. They can teach them compassion from an early age, and find meaningful ways to engage with them. “During our anti-parasite campaign we had a drawing competition,” Cruz explained. “It’s a great way to reach future generations. They learn responsible behavior and kindness towards all animals.”
Follow Alma Animal Tulum on Facebook: www.facebook.com/almaanimaltulum
To donate you can do so via PayPal. Just click on the DONATE button at the top of their Facebook page or go directly to PayPal paypal.me/almaanimaltulum
To Sum Up
Here are some of the people who deserve credit for the efforts described in this week’s blog. They are the heroes. Thank you for what you do!
- Help Tulum Dogs: Lisa Edwards, Cathy Cairelli, Richelle Morgan, Juan Goicoechea and Claire & Lanny Vogel,
- Alma Animal Tulum: Maribel García and her fellow volunteers
- Lost Dog Foundation
- Playa Pet Tulum and other local veterinary clinics
- All non-profit partners in Mexico, USA and Canada
- All fosters, sponsors and donors
- The municipal government of the city of Tulum
Please be sure to check in next week. We’ll be going north to Isla Mujeres to find out what is involved when people in Canada and the USA want to adopt a dog from Mexico.
Together, let’s keep our precious pets healthy, happy and safe!
The Complete Series
In case you missed any of the other articles in this series of six, here’s your chance to catch up now.
MEXICO’S STREET DOG HEROES https://petpeevesunmasked.com/mexicos-street-dog-heroes/
DOG HOUSES SHELTER MEXICO’S PETS https://petpeevesunmasked.com/dog-houses-shelter-Mexico’s-pets/
VETERINARY MEDICINE IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN https://petpeevesunmasked.com/veterinary-medicine-in-Playa-del-Carmen/
CANADIANS ADOPT HOMELESS MEXICAN PUPPIES
https://petpeevesunmasked.com/canadians-adopt-homeless-mexican-puppies/
CANCUN DOG RESCUER SAVED CHICA https://petpeevesunmasked.com/cancun-dog-rescuer-saved-chica/