From the SPA
by Christine Foster, Sept, 15, 2006

Ladies in Waiting

 

People often ask why we have so many more female than male animals at the SPA. Heaven knows it’s true: of about 60 dogs in residence at any time, at least 50 are females. It’s the same story with the cats.

Of the 50 or so cats, we have fewer than 10 males. Female animals are much more likely to be dumped on the street, abandoned or dropped off. Why? Probably because females are thought of as being more trouble. They go into heat. They produce puppies or kittens. They are more expensive to sterilize. Some people even think they are less prestigious to own. It’s an old prejudice, I guess, sort of like wanting your first child to be a boy.

But we have such winsome, wise, wonderful ladies. And knowledgeable dog and cat owners don’t hesitate to rave about their good sense in picking females. Female dogs don’t lift their legs on car tires or surprised guests, after all, and female cats don’t spray. (By the way the SPA charges the same sterilization donation for females despite the more complicated operation.) Females are also often more affectionate—and just as bright, or brighter. Personality isn’t quantified by sex, either. Take Miel. She’s a love, a clown, a beauty, a brain. She has lots of German Shepherd in her mix, and pride in her bearing. A stunner who looks like she’s wearing permanent eyeliner, she’s getting lots of leash training right now and is alert and responsive. This lovely lady is young and smart and will be a loyal, noble friend and family member to anyone lucky enough to choose her. 

 

And speaking of personality plus, in the cat department take a look at little calico Kiwi. Only about three months old, she is a nestler, a nibbler (gentle kisses only!) and a playmate—in short, a total prize. She’s at exactly the right age to become a favorite family member forever.

And she will only grow more beautiful in looks and spirit, once she knows she’s someone’s special friend.

And remember to come and say hello (and make a donation!) when we visit the Jardín (we may not be there during some of the September celebrations, but normally we’re there weekly, each Thursday, from 11:15am to 1:15pm, opposite the Parroquia).

Please come and visit these and all our other great animals at The Sociedad Protectora de Animales, open from noon to 2pm, Monday through Friday, for adoptions and volunteers. The clinic is open from 10am to 2pm. A donation of 250 pesos for cats and 300 pesos for dogs is requested for adoption and includes sterilization. We are located at Los Pinos 7, a right turn off Calzada de la Estación. Call 154-5930 for more information or visit www.spasanmiguel.org  to learn more about us and about how to donate or sponsor or adopt an animal.