Photo: Terrae Weatherman
Heading out on vacation this summer. Have you ever considered scheduling a morning of volunteering with an animal rescue near your hotel?
Because dog withdrawal on vacation is real, y’all.
Coco’s Animal Welfare in Playa del Carmen is one of many dog-loving nonprofits that welcome volunteers to drop by on vacay. Sara and Terrae spent a memorable morning there walking dogs, socializing puppies (AKA squealing with happiness while the puppies gnawed their shoelaces), and hearing about the work being done to improve the plight of Mexico’s pets.
As they learned on their tour, Coco’s partners with Minnesota’s own Pet Project Rescue (PPR) to provide FREE spays and neuters, rabies vaccines, flea and tick treatment, and parasite medicine to pets in Cristo Rey, one of the poorest neighborhoods in the area. PPR’s President Maia Rumpho-Stellpflug explains, “We partner with Coco’s 365 days a year, funding surgeries and medical care, while Coco’s vets perform all the needed vet care. Our goal is to spay/neuter every animal in need in Cristo Rey to prevent future generations of homeless dogs and cats.” Adds Laura Raikes, Director of Coco’s, “Without the financial support from PPR sponsoring this project we would be unable to offer this service for free. Teamwork is key in animal welfare. ” You can donate to PPR and Coco’s here and here.
