Alma Animal Refuge: Rescuing 400+ Abandoned Pets in Tulum

The Alma Animal Refuge in Tulum is one of the few places dedicated to rescuing and caring for abandoned dogs and cats. Currently, it is home to over 400 animals. The refuge is facing a challenging time, struggling to meet basic needs like food, medication, and facility improvements. All of these are dependent on donations and fundraising activities.

Sandra Torres, the manager of the refuge, describes it as a six-year-old project that aims to provide more than just a temporary home for these animals. The refuge also aspires to be a community hub, offering family gatherings, pet care activities, and therapies for pets with special needs. However, the journey has not been without its obstacles.

The refuge was severely damaged by a hurricane, leaving the facilities in a precarious state. The current priorities are to build safer cages and expand the cat area. However, limited resources have hindered their progress. Torres explains, "The sheets we use for the cat area are deteriorated, water leaks through, and the kittens end up soaked and in mud. We aim to install flooring for their comfort, but progress is slow." Despite these challenges, with the help of a donor, they have begun constructing a new cat area in a room initially intended for dogs. This is a small step towards meeting a significant need.

Torres envisions the Alma Animal Refuge as a dignified and transformative space for both animals and people. She says, "My dream is for the refuge to be a dignified place for the animals and a space where people can learn to respect and care for them. But we still have so much to build and improve."

The project also promotes respect for pets by allowing families to interact with the animals. They can bathe them, play with them, and even use a swimming pool for rehabilitation therapies. The refuge relies heavily on community support. Donations of good quality items for bazaars or basic supplies like food and medicines are always welcome. Collection points include the MiBet and PetFriendly clinics.

Torres emphasizes that every small contribution makes a difference to the well-being of the animals. Despite the adversities, the Alma Animal Refuge remains a beacon of hope for stray dogs and cats in Tulum. With hard work, solidarity, and community support, they continue to offer second chances to those who need it most.