May 04, 2007, Rescue needed, indeed, By Mauri Formigoni

Several young people working on a documentary video on Mexico asked to see our animals at the Sociedad Protectora de Animales. They had many questions for us asking why there are so many stray dogs in Mexico and whether there are more females than males. “Of course there are,” we answered.

Males are valued more in Mexico and female dogs and cats are tossed aside because they are the ones who make babies. (Not alone, however.) Ninety-five percent of our dogs are female. We neuter and spay all of our resident animals, and we insist that puppies and kittens who are adopted are returned for neutering when they are of age. Spaying and neutering is the solution to pet overpopulation in this country and throughout the world.

Quigley

One such animal who is in dire need of rescuing is Quigley, a tiny, pitiful, female puppy in poor health with mange, worms, etc. She also has a hole in one ear, like a piercing. We believe it was caused by mange or a dog bite. Quigley has many friends at the SPA including our veterinarian who vows to heal this dog and, if no home is found, she will add it to her large animal family. We have to rescue this baby. Would you please consider adopting her or joining the SPA to help us help animals like Quigley? It will be several weeks before she is likely to be available for adoption, but right now she needs loving care from volunteers with gloves, towels and blankets. In a week she has gained sparkly eyes and gazes lovingly into the eyes of those who care for her. How could we do otherwise? Can you help?

Kittens galore

We have kittens running out of our ears! They are so cute and funny one could just scoop them all up and run with them. But, they do grow up. We want homes for them, and it only gets harder as they become cats. I have four cats that improve the quality of my life immeasurably. Male kittens Crispin and Russett are adorable ginger tigers, still babies and so winning! Come watch them play and you will want them both! Kittens of this age adapt easily to your home. They have no fear and need only food, love and a litter box. Not much. They doze, play, cuddle, doze again and the routine continues.

Every week I feel I should thank you for this opportunity. I love writing this column each week about interesting animals that I hope will get adopted. Riding to the Jardín on Thursdays with new puppies, kittens and brave dogs who should have a home, I think, “This is the job I always wanted.” I totally believe everyone should have pets!

Volunteers still needed

Come visit us at the SPA—newly renovated—at Los Pinos 7, just off Calzada de La Estación or at the Jardín on Thursdays from 11:15am–1:15pm. We still need a driver to bring the animals and volunteer to the Jardín. Interested? There are golden crowns for do-gooders in Heaven, especially for animal lovers. Call me if you are interested or want to volunteer. Mauri: 154-5930 or mauriformigoni@yahoo.com.

Call the SPA for appointments with the veterinarian, Monday–Friday, 10am–2pm.

Or come visit anytime or check our website at www.spasanmiguel.org.