The problem of overpopulation of dogs and cats in Mexico is enormous, and Lakeside is a mirror of the problems that exist in much of the country. Dogs and cats, even those owned and cared for by families are often not spayed or neutered, and most of their offspring end up on the street.
The reasons are many and varied including lack of resources, economics, culture, and awareness. Controlling the explosive growth of dog and cat populations, the resulting suffering inflicted on the animals, and the detrimental effects this has on communities is the reason Pesos for Paws has been organized.
Just what the doctor ordered! Some doctors say they may be better than anti-depressants. They can lower blood pressure, ward off depression, boost immunity, improve your social life, reduce anxiety, even help you get a date!
Some dogs can also sniff out cancer and even detect low blood sugar in their diabetic owners.
But none of this is possible if they're abandoned on the street.
There are thousands of stray dogs living in the streets and on the beaches of Mexico. Mexico City authorities report that they capture and kill an estimated 20,000 dogs per month in their city alone. In Manzanillo, a city in Colima, there are more than 16,000 dogs and cats living on the streets.
With little food and sustenance, searing heat and very little shelter, these dogs have few friends and a lot of enemies. Because they lack basic care, they succumb to diseases and serious problems such as claws growing into their feet and coats matting, which pulls on the skin and creates a safe haven for insect larvae. They are infested with fleas and ticks, and many suffer from mange.
But starvation, dehydration, sickness and exposure are not their biggest challenges; tragically, their biggest challenges are apathy and ignorance.
MYTH:
Neutering will somehow compromise a dog's canine masculinity, and render him unable to work.
FACT:
There is no medical evidence of this. Actually, neutered dogs live longer, have fewer health issues, and fewer behavioral issues. It also prevents unwanted litters and reduces the stray and feral dog populations.
Humane or not?
Though there are millions of animals being put to death every year in the United States due to overpopulation, the problem in Mexico is far more critical. Not only are there more stray dogs, but the manner of euthanasia is far from a humane "nighty night" drug.
According to the Humane Society International, phenobarbital, the drug most used to euthanize animals in the States, has been denied to Mexican veterinarians. They use electrocution instead. It's a painful and inhumane death, but it is inexpensive and available.
Problem: Rabies
The World Health Organization estimates that the disease kills 55,000 people per year. Dogs are the vector in 99 percent of these cases.
Solution: Early Inoculation
Rabies vaccines are highly effective and should be first administered between 3 and 6 months. The cost is minimal, awareness is the problem.
Testimonials
"The need is so great. The resources so few. The animals so precious. Why wouldn’t we help? The life of every dog is every bit as valuable as the life of any other. Plain and simple." ~ M. Borowitz, Ajijic, MX
"Whatever we can do, each of us, in our own way, to bring compassion, alleviate suffering, break down barriers, and facilitate kindness and joy should be celebrated and encouraged." ~ R. Lopez, Chapala, MX
Pesos for Paws
Here's what we do.
The goal of Pesos for Paws is to increase the number of lakeside Spay and Neuter Clinics to significantly reduce the number of unwanted litters. These are two-day events where the number of surgeries performed is approximately 100 per day. Currently there are three clinics per year, we hope to expand that to ten.
CREATE A LEGACY OF HOPE
There are many different ways to support our mission so it can continue on in the future. We can help you leave a legacy of hope for the animals. If you are interested in leaving a legacy of hope for animals via bequest, contact us to find out more about how to begin this process by sending an email or calling 376-766-1234 today.
When you contribute financially to Pesos For Paws you give more than just money. You're giving back to your community in countless ways. Your gift provides a safer, cleaner, healthier community. Neutered male cats are much less likely to fight, yowl, roam and spray urine, spaying females stops them from going into heat, and can make them less anxious. It reduces behavioral issues in dogs and helps to prevent the spread of disease.
Please give today.