What We Do
The Problem: Overpopulation of Homeless Dogs in Mexico
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Mexico's Institute of National Statistics and Geography reported in 2022 that Mexico ranks third in the world of animal abuse and first in Latin America. Mexico has an estimated 18 million stray dogs, twice the population of New York city. The Federal Chamber of Deputies estimates that only 30% of the dogs in Mexico have a home leaving 18 million dogs homeless. Pictured are puppies saved by one of our affiliates from drowning. The puppies were left to die in a hole gradually filling with rainwater.
(Source: Instituto Belisario Dominguez Senado de la Republica, June 2023).
It is the mission of Rosey’s Wish to eliminate the suffering of homeless dogs in our community through these initiatives:
The Solution: Support
Homeless Dog Shelters – These shelters are mostly small operations with 30 to 100 dogs. Most are not well-funded; they are run by hard-working, animal-loving people with big hearts but limited resources. Rosey’s Wish helps these sanctuaries with food from our pet food bank, medical assistance, free sterilization clinics and adoptions. Many of the dogs are not adoptable and spend their entire life in the safety of these shelters.
This video shows a homeless dog shelter in Celaya, a member of Rosey’s Wish network. Yoel is an agricultural worker. He and his wife and two children are caretakers for an old hacienda and in this location they care for 30+ homeless dogs.
The Solution: Adopt
Adoption (local) is difficult because there are more homeless dogs in our community than people willing to adopt them. But we work diligently to place adoptable dogs in loving homes. Pictured is one of our first local adoptions, Great Dane Xochitl, and her new owner. Xochitl’s owner died and this beautiful dog was being considered for euthanasia. Rosey’s Wish was fortunate that local shelter, Lucky Dogs, fostered her until a suitable owner could be found.
Adoption (export) is facilitated by dog angel, Joe Howell. Joe and his team are experienced in placing homeless Mexican dogs with families and reputable shelters in the U.S. and Canada. In April 2024 Joe transported 61 dogs to U.S. with 5 dogs from Rosey’s Wish network. And in July 2024 Joe transported 64 dogs to U.S. and Canada with 15 dogs coming from Rosey’s Wish network. Pictured is Joe and his team in front of the Red Bus.
The Solution: Educate
Seven out of ten domestic animals in Mexico are subjected to abuse, and the laws meant to protect them are not being effectively implemented. According to a 2023 study conducted by the Belisario Domínguez Institute (IBD) criminal penalties for those who mistreat dogs, cats and other domestic animals have not successfully prevented violence against pets in Mexico. (Source: The Animal Reader June 2023) Rosey’s Wish is in contact with government officials to implement school-based programs to educate youth about care and compassion for animals. Pictured is co-founder and Rosey visiting a local kindergarten.
Adoption: Foster Parents Needed
When the need arises, Rosey’s Wish will foster a sick dog until it can be adopted. We are seeking volunteers in the San Miguel area to develop a network of foster parents. If you are interested, please contact us at [email protected]. Pictured is Coco, before and after being fostered and eventually adopted by our co-founder.