From the SPA
In praise of Mexican street dogs
By Natalie Hardy

Erasmus wrote In Praise of Folly and published it in 1511 in Rotterdam. The title struck my fancy way back in college. Since then, numerous book titles erupt periodically in my mind, always containing “Praise of…” something. The concept embraces appreciation of the subject, whatever it is. Appreciation of Mexican street dogs has been building for a while. All over San Miguel and environs new owners adopt our mutts and take them home, even to the US.

We receive testimonials frequently from delighted owners proclaiming their joy at having taken in one of these dogs. Some examples follow:

“Nellie’s tale: My husband and I were volunteers at the SPA [and we] had agreed that we wouldn’t take a dog into our home until we had the opportunity to travel. We concurred that Nellie would make a wonderful companion for someone, as would so many of the dogs we came to know at the SPA … a walk from the Jardín back to the SPA [one day changed that].

 Two days later, as a birthday present from my husband, we became her permanent guardians. She’s just a good dog, through and through. We are grateful for her every day and all she has to do is look at us and we can tell it works both ways.” —Dianne, California



“Bringing Blondie home was a decision I have never regretted. She is beloved in our household and all through our neighborhood. Your work is heroic and it does make a difference to so many people as well as animals. I thank you every day for Blondie, and for all the other animals that you care for.” —Pamela, Wisconsin



“Five months ago we had a break-in while our daughter was home alone. Alex attacked the intruder and we believe saved our daughter’s life. We are so grateful for your organization. We really believe that without your help our daughter wouldn’t be here today. Thank you so very much.” —Jason, Arizona



“With the smallest B&B in San Miguel, we needed a dog that was nice to strangers but a good watchdog against bad guys. Butch got the difference right away. He greets guests like an old friend but growls and barks if any drunks come to the door. He is fun and funny and totally loyal. We took a chance on love and got tenfold in return.” —Julie, San Miguel



“My name is Ellie and I came with my family to San Miguel. In September of 2008 my family adopted a beautiful dark red cocker spaniel from the SPA. She is nothing short of a member of our family. She sleeps in my suitcase and constantly shadows everyone in our house. Despite Gally’s being found running the streets, she has never once used the bathroom in our house. We cannot imagine what it would be like without her.” —Ellie, San Miguel

Such messages lift us away from the tougher side of running a shelter. We all need to hear the success stories. They compel us to offer more of these lovable “rescued” dogs to the public at large. Our on-premises training program coaxes already smart creatures into becoming irresistible companions. Consider, for example, Callita or Tatiana from our current stable of available dogs.

Check our website at www.spasanmiguel.org for our larger offering of adoptable animals.

A wonderful donation has come our way from the San Miguel Quilters. This quilt is a work of art, made with love just for the SPA. Tickets for a raffle to be held December 12 will be on sale until that date. We are exhibiting the quilt in the Jardín 11am to 1pm on Thursdays, and it will be on display at La Conexión, Aldama 3, until the beginning of December, when it will be moved to the Biblioteca Pública. Tickets are available in the Jardín, the SPA office and La Conexión. Take a chance on this beautiful work and contribute to our ongoing operations. We are in the Jardín 11am to 1pm on Thursdays, or call 152-6124 for information.