Build a shelter for Mexican street dogs

My name is Heather, and I rescue dogs in Mexico. This is my story.

The start

In 2016 my husband, Gil, and I left our lives in New Jersey and moved to rural Mexico to find peace. Instead, we found heartbreak when a starving beach dog wandered into our yard. Unable to focus on anything else, I lured the skinny pup into my car and drove to the only available vet. It was too late. The sweet dog that I had desperately tried to save died anyway. Meeting him changed my world.

His name was Pinto, and I work every day to honor the promise that I cried into his fur.

The early years

Immediately after Pinto’s death, our house became a makeshift shelter. We rescued dogs from the beach, the road, and neighboring villages. Every time I went out, I came home with another broken dog. We carved out space in our home to safely care for up to 35 dogs at a time. It was stinky, messy, beautiful chaos. To date, we have found forever families for 209 dogs.

A sanctuary of our own

We are the proud new owners of a 50-acre rural farm! My dream of a proper dog sanctuary is finally coming true. It's a work in progress, but already there are three open-concept, indoor-outdoor dog areas that can accommodate up to 50 dogs (total). It is a beautiful and peaceful place for dogs to live and play while they wait to be adopted.

The need

We take in a lot of cruelty, neglect and abuse cases. In the last two weeks, we've rescued two dogs intentionally set on fire. Often dogs have to stay in the hospital longer than is needed because they need a quiet, private space.

Our next project is building such a space - a small transitional house with five private dog suites and a fenced outdoor area. It will serve as a home for the sick, injured, and delicate dogs who cannot yet live with other dogs. The dogs we rescue have been through so much. They need this space. Please help us give it to them.

For donors who give -

$250 + your name will be displayed on our donor wall.

$1000 + a dog suite will be named after you - it's a big deal.

Thank you from my heart!

xoxo

Heather