Small town in Mexico becomes shining example of animal welfare.
By Christy Crabtree
Los Barriles in Baja is home to an amazing group of people who work together as one to show Mexico and her inhabitants how rescue is done. Most stories that come out of Mexico contain starving, poisoned or even electrocuted animals as common place and while many groups are fighting to correct these situations and protect the animals, it can sometimes seem overwhelming. However, in Los Barriles, the Animal Lovers of Mexico Association appear to be conquering this scene.
Headed up by citizens from Mexico and the United States, this group conducts fundraisers for various clinics held each month, foster programs and the placement of rescued animals in loving homes. Not only is the work based on current situations but the future generations are included so that beyond their own time, the animals in this town will have a legacy of protectors. Through ALMA programs, school children are taught how to care for animals as well as the importance of spaying and neutering in order to educate and create a bright future for them.
The town itself works together to ensure this process continues and that overpopulation will soon be a thing of the past. At the clinics those that cannot afford to pay for spaying or neutering are not turned away while those that can afford to pay are typically charged around $10. In addition to and because of anyone who can afford to pay more, and there are those that can and do, these clinics are kept open and flourishing. At this time, there are no veterinary offices in or near the town, creating the need for these clinics; however there are plans for one to open in the future.
ALMA is a non profit organization. They are currently working on obtaining 501(c)3 status,as well as, collecting signatures from board members and officers in order to open a banking account in Mexico for donations, etc. This process can take time due to local laws and regulations, not to mention the fact that most people in the area are not year round residents. So obtaining the amount of signatures needed can be time-consuming.
The success of ALMA by no means indicates that the situation is completely resolved and no problems exist. In fact, many fosters are overwhelmed with the amount of rescue animals but with the hard work of this incredible group they are tackling the problem and getting to the core of what causes it, overpopulation. It may be a long time coming but these advocates are here for the long haul and victory is the only outcome they’ll accept.
Kudos to this fabulous organization for their loving care of animals and perseverance through many obstacles! For more information or to contact ALMA directly, please email them at sheilafluf@yahoo.com.