The Backyard

by Cheryl Smyth

JUATO. While in the city, she noticed numerous dogs living on the streets, many of which had obviously suffered abuse and neglect. When she expressed her concerns to any of the locals, they seemed puzzled by her distress. She was left with the impression that they see the animals as part of the scenery—a very different point of view from her own.

Davis always felt a sensitivity towards animals while growing up, but was discouraged from expressing that sentiment. She was well into adulthood when she became involved with an animal rights group and later worked as an assistant in a veterinary clinic. Seeing these pooches in Guanajuato tugged at her heart strings and she vowed to help them.

Rescue groups were already in place in the Mexican city; however, they were brimming with animals. Davis established Mex-Can Pet Partners back home in Victoria, British Columbia knowing there would be more support and the money raised would go further in Mexico. As for finding furever homes for the dogs, she was not willing to risk them ending up on the streets again, so she has always looked to Canada for adopters.

Eventually, Davis bought a home in Guanajuato, where she now spends half the year. All the strays brought to her shelter are thoroughly vetted, plus scrutinized for any behavioral issues. She has found that a dog’s true disposition can sometimes take weeks or months to reveal itself. Any exhibiting an unfavorable temperament or health issues are not considered for adoption. The organization also surpasses what Canada Border Services and Agriculture Canada require for entry into their country.

Davis has had difficulty finding volunteers and has hired paid staff as a result. Nonetheless, she has seen more involvement over the years among the locals in animal rescue and animal rights, as well as more effort put into upholding the animal cruelty laws—laws that have been in place, but not necessarily enforced. Furthermore, much needed education has also increased.

Looking back at the point in time that set her on this path, Davis says “I don’t think I would be here if it weren’t for that serendipitous moment when I saw a poster promoting spay/neuter in Guanajuato and made the effort to meet the people behind it.”

‹ CHERYL SMYTH is a freelance writer and photographer, who revels in road trips and exploring nature with a doggy companion along for the ride. She loves to share her discoveries with others in hopes to inspire them to enjoy the world around them with their own fur pals.

Considering many of these dogs are born as strays, their numbers can be significantly reduced by spay and neutering them. According to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), “One unaltered female dog and her offspring can produce 67,000 puppies in only six years.” Mex-Can info at mex-can.org.

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