VETERINARY MEDICINE IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN

Posted on by Regina D.F. Burdett

PART 3 IN THE SERIES “MEXICO’S STREET DOG HEROES” 

So, last week we wrote about their dog houses and now we focus on veterinary medicine in Playa del Carmen. Certainly, this is a very beautiful spot on Mexico’s Riviera Maya. On the other hand, however, it also has a not so pretty side when it comes to Mexico’s vulnerable pets.

Dr. “Lalo” has practiced veterinary medicine in Playa del Carmen for 25 years, here with Chanel
Dr. “Lalo” has practiced veterinary medicine in Playa del Carmen for 25 years, here with Chanel

Chanel’s Long Journey Ahead

Mid November 2018, she was found wandering in traffic, confused and terrified. Thankfully, though, Alex saw this tiny, skinny pup and took her home. When she was unable to find its owner, The Snoopi Project immediately took on this extreme rescue case. Without hesitation, Founder/Director, Kelly Whittemore, went straight  to HospiPet Playa veterinary clinic to see Dr. Eduardo “Lalo” Cárdenas.

  • This abandoned itsy bitsy Chihuahua is facing huge medical challenges
    This abandoned itsy bitsy Chihuahua is facing huge medical challenges
  • Chanel at HospiPet Playa Veterinary Clinic on Mexico’s Riviera Maya
    Chanel at HospiPet Playa Veterinary Clinic on Mexico’s Riviera Maya

It was evident that this very sick girl had been abandoned, but she needed a new name. And, for her new start in life, she became Chanel. Yes, that same tiny Chihuahua you saw last week in Whittemore’s arms, and topping this page, held by Dr. Lalo.

The first examination revealed that she was approximately seven years old, extremely malnourished, and weighed barely 2.5 pounds. She also refused to eat or drink on her own. On top of that, she had lost 50 percent of her hair, and suffered from hypertension in her lungs. And, to make matters even worse, the little girl had a bladder tumor as well as heart worms. Her chances of survival looked really grim.

When strong enough, Chanel will have surgery to remove a bladder tumor, seen here in this ultrasound
When strong enough, Chanel will have surgery to remove a bladder tumor, seen here in this ultrasound

But Chanel is a little fighter. When she is strong enough, she’ll undergo surgery to remove the tumor, be spayed, and have her teeth cleaned. Only then will she be able to start heart worm treatment. Meanwhile, she is receiving excellent care from her vets as well as foster mom, Cryss.

VETERINARY CARE FOR MEXICO’S MOST VULNERABLE

Q & A WITH DR. “LALO”

Established in 2012, HospiPet Playa Clínica Veterinaria is a medical center specializing in surgery and cancer treatment for small species. Dr. Eduardo “Lalo” Cárdenas has been practicing in Playa del Carmen for 25 years and is highly regarded by the community. So, counting on his experience and excellent reputation, I asked him about veterinary care for Mexico’s most vulnerable.

Infectious And Contagious Diseases

Pet Peeves Unmasked: What are the most common illnesses you see in your practice?

Dr. “Lalo”: Many of our cases involve hemoparasitosis, such as ehrlichia and anaplasma.

Note:

Ehrlichiosis is an infectious tick-borne illness. The ehrlichia bacteria attacks a dog’s blood cells and causes chronic infection.

Anaplasma is also spread by ticks. Anaplasmosis comes in two forms and infects white blood cells and platelets.

DL: We also treat a lot of patients suffering from viral infections, like parvovirus, feline leukemia, and distemper. Fairly common, too, are skin infections, such as atopia.

Note:

Canine parvovirus (CPV) is highly contagious, the most common form being intestinal.

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a disease that impairs a cat’s immune system and commonly causes anemia and lymphoma. 

Canine distemper has no known cure. It affects the respiratory, gastrointestinal and central nervous systems, as well as the conjunctival membranes of the eye.

Atopia. Atopic reactions are caused by localized hypersensitivity reaction to an allergen.


An outdoor pet, Robin had a tooth abscess which caused a serious oral infection, here after surgery
An outdoor pet, Robin had a tooth abscess which caused a serious oral infection, here after surgery
This surgical procedure shows how veterinary care for Mexico’s most vulnerable makes a big difference
This surgical procedure shows how veterinary care for Mexico’s most vulnerable makes a big difference

PPU: Are some of the illnesses you mentioned prevalent in tropic climates, especially when pets are outdoors for extended periods?  

DL: Yes, that is so. Hemoparasitosis is typical of hot, humid regions like ours.

Neutering

PPU: In Playa del Carmen are there campaigns offering free or low-cost sterilization and parasite treatment for dogs and cats?

DL: Absolutely. Both local government and private organizations hold events so that low-income families can have their pets neutered.

Mistreatment

PPU: What can you tell us about incidences of mistreatment?

DL: First of all it’s to do with irresponsible pet ownership, not seeking early medical attention. And, second, aggressive behavior between pets where there are multiple family members living under the same roof. This shows a total lack of control and planning. And, this problem also occurs at animal shelters.

Advice

PPU: What’s the most valuable advice you can give to families who are struggling financially?

DL: I’d suggest they assess their personal circumstances — social, economic, health — that directly impact their ability to look after a pet. People should evaluate these things before getting a dog, or a cat. Are they willing to allow the animal to become a member of the family? If not, then it would be better for them not to have one.

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!

  • Dr. Eduardo Cárdenas
  • Dr. Simón Rosales
  • Simón Méndez – General Assistant
  • Laura Velázquez – Assistant
  • Foster mother, Cryss
  • The Snoopi Project
  • All those who donate to veterinary care for Mexico’s most vulnerable dogs and cats

Visit HospiPet Playa’s website: http://www.hospipetplaya.com

Follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hospipetplaya

Please be sure to check in next week. We’ll be returning to Tulum to see how the community works together for the good of the animals.

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/

TULUM’S TIRELESS ANIMAL ADVOCATES https://petpeevesunmasked.com/tulums-tireless-animal-advocates/

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/

DOG HOUSES SHELTER MEXICO’S PETS


Posted on by Regina D.F. Burdett

PART 2 IN THE SERIES “MEXICO’S STREET DOG HEROES” 

This week we are going to show how dog houses protect Mexican pets that have a human family. Yes, I know what you’re all about to ask. Well, sadly, and for whatever reason, the canines are not allowed inside the home. And, as a result, they live mostly outdoors, often in deplorable conditions.

As you will soon see, our photos tell the stories of before and after. Furthermore, we learn first hand why one small volunteer organization based in Playa del Carmen is able to step in and help.

  • Pokey before, in the shadiest spot available, surrounded by junk
  • Pokey after, posing by his donated dog house with his human family

The Snoopi Project – Riviera Maya

“When we started in July 2015, our initial intention was to provide animals with a proper shelter. And, we also wanted to educate owners on responsible pet ownership and promote spay/neuter,” explains Kelly Whittemore, Founder and Director of The Snoopi Project. 

Master carpenter Alonso Roda and his latest dog house, finished just in time for Christmas

Dog Houses Shelter Mexico’s Pets

In order to assist pet owners struggling financially, this organization donates dog houses for pets that are kept outside. These items are made locally out of recycled wooden pallets from nearby businesses. The objective is to protect the dogs from the tropical weather conditions prevalent in Quintana Roo state, on the Riviera Maya. That way, they are sheltered from the blistering sun and torrential rain that is typical during the summer hurricane season. 

  • Spike before, lying on concrete, tethered by the front door
    Spike before, lying on concrete, tethered by the front door
  • Spike after, showing how dog houses shelter Mexico’s pets

Interestingly she is originally from California and worked as a veterinary assistant in North Carolina before settling in south-east Mexico. She then explained that The Snoopi Project pays a carpenter, by the name of Alonso Roda, for his work. With the extra money he earns on top of his full-time job, he can provide a better life for his family. 

Small Helps In A Big Way

As you have just seen, patience and dedication are what it takes to achieve meaningful results. And, this is a really good example of how small can help in a big way. The first dog house was delivered in July 2015. Now, the total count up to end December 2018 stands at 596. And, don’t forget, the work was done by just one carpenter, in his free time. Way to go! What an amazing achievement! 

Scouting Low-Income Neighborhoods

When I asked Whittemore how they hear about pet guardians who need help, she explained that residents and volunteers alert her. However, in addition to that, Kelly and her friend and helper, Stephanie La, constantly drive around poor neighborhoods. They look for outside pets in precarious situations and check on their welfare. She even laughed about the fact that residents are a little shocked to see them in their Snoopi Wagon. The fact is “most times people think we must have taken a wrong turn.” 

Whittemore also commented that most people are very grateful and appreciate the help. “The Mexican community has, honestly, been very open. We have met a lot of wonderful people.”

  • Chiquis before, living like so many canines, totally out in the open
  • Chiquis after, smiles with his dad after receiving his very own dog house

Dog Houses Can Protect Mexican Pets, Donations Are Key

The reason that The Snoopi Project is able to do its work is due entirely to the donations it receives. And, although providing dog houses to protect vulnerable Mexican pets is the principle objective, that is not all they do. Here are some examples.

  • Each family that receives a dog house is also gifted de-parasite medication and flea/tick protection for 30 days, for all dogs on the property.
  • Needy pets receive food and water bowls, collars with personalized ID tags, and toys, as well as supplies of dry food.
  • Help is provided so that pets can be sterilized.
  • While out on the streets, if they see an extreme case where an animal is injured, sick, abused or abandoned, they will take action. It’s important to note, however, that The Snoopi Project is not a shelter. All animals they rescue are either fostered or taken to a private boarding facility.
  • Negrita before, no dog should have to care for her newborns in such squalor
    Negrita before, no dog should have to care for her newborns in such squalor
  • Negrita after, a prime example that dog houses protect Mexican pets

To Sum Up

Here are some of the people who deserve credit for the efforts described in this week’s blog. They are Mexico’s outdoor dog heroes. However, there are many more people who care about the wellbeing of these sentient beings. And, without any doubt, they are all trying to help these innocent animals who lack adequate care and protection. Thank you for what you do!

  • Kelly Whittemore and Stephanie La
  • Alonso Roda
  • All the volunteers, fundraisers, and those who donate to the cause

Follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/The-Snoopi-Project-Riviera-Maya-807710772678086/ 

To donate you can do so via PayPal to djwhittemore62@yahoo.com

Please be sure to follow me next week. We’ll be staying in Playa del Carmen to visit a veterinary hospital to discuss injuries, disease and preventio. It will also feature the challenging medical case of tiny patient, Chanel, seen here in the arms of Kelly Whittemore.

The Snoopi Project founder, Kelly Whittemore, takes rescue pup Chanel to the vet for more tests
The Snoopi Project founder, Kelly Whittemore, takes rescue pup Chanel to the vet for more tests

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/

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/

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/