LOS MACHOS BEACH PROJECT

Where there's a will, there's a way

2010-06-28T21:08:00.003-04:00

That's right...Homer has a home!! Well, for now, he has a foster home in New York. Our beloved Jessica Bengels, volunteer and contributor extraordinaire, found a friend willing to take in Homer, rehabilitate him, and find him a forever home (if she can let him go!!). The situation could not be more ideal, and I could not be more grateful.

One more step, and Homer is on his way to happiness: a flight to New York. Please donate what you can!!! We need $300 more at this point for his shipment, and Homer is NYC-bound! If you can help this boy make it over to the mainland, please email me at ShantiAbi@yahoo.com.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Shanti

Homer's Next Last Chance

2010-04-27T22:56:00.005-04:00

Ok, people. Let's rally!

Homer needs our help. Adri has had her hands full, it seems, and Homer has not made the situation any easier. In sum, Homer has attacked and killed two of Adri's small foster dogs. Adri emailed me a couple of days ago and asked me for permission to euthanize him as she tries to iron out issues with setting up her own small animal shelter. Homer's time may be up.

I'm a realistic person. I know we can't save every dog in Puerto Rico, and I know that there was easily a more sociable and adoptable dog to rescue than Homer out at Los Machos the day that he was rescued. So here's even more truth:

Homer cannot live with small dogs, and will likely kill another animal again if pestered/provoked enough. If fostered or adopted, he must be completely rehabilitated and supervised, the only animal of the household, and not allowed with children. While Adri was able to have him for 6 months and rid him of his ailments, her house is not conducive to the kind of rehabilitation a dog like Homer needs. He obviously has territory issues, among others, and needs quality, one-on-one care...always a hard thing to find in the animal rescue world. He has not grown back his full coat of fur, and may not ever fully. This is Homer.

Homer is doll and a half with humans. He loves to love people. Despite his years of abuse on the streets of Puerto Rico, this dog can still trust us. He has been temperamant evaluated and performed very well. He's general demeanor with humans is sweet, submissive, and desparate for love. He's a sweetheart, truly. And that I can remeber first hand from my days at Los Machos Beach with him. He could make someone very happy, I know it. This is also Homer.

Adri says I have two weeks to try to find Homer a safe haven. If I don't, he will be euthanized. Back to the whole honesty thing again...I am not saying that Homer shouldn't be euthanized. I do believe that some animals can be past the point of rehabilitation. However, I am saying that if there were somebody willing to devote the full time and energy it would take to give this dog the quality of life I hoped he would have, Homer's ripe for the picking and should NOT be euthanized. We have put so much into him thus far, so let's take yet another step further and see what we can do.

Thanks for reading,
Shanti

Construction in Ceiba

2009-09-15T21:31:00.002-04:00

Just thought I would share this interesting bit of info about Ceiba, the small town where Los Machos Beach is located...scared to think of what this means for our darling satos.

Consigli To Build Reserve Center in Puerto Rico

Homer, by the way, has officially received his heartworm treatment and is actually growing back his fuzz/fur!!!! Anxiously awaiting photos from Adri so we can see how our boy is progressing!

Help Homer!

2009-08-05T11:36:00.012-04:00

I just wanted to take a moment to respond to a recent comment on this blog. "Alexis" writes:

Hey. I was wondering what would be the vet cost of the treatment for a dog like Homer? How much does it cost to treat all his health issues? How does this compare to the cost for doing the same for the average sato? When I move to Puerto Rico I want to help save satos but I don't know much about the cost involved. Thanks!

The cost of vet treatments vary depending on the health of the dog when we rescue him or her, as you can imagine. For Homer, we are looking at a vet bill of approximately $1000, possible more. For a relatively healthy sato, the vet bill can be anywhere from $100 (which is rare) to $300. Another issue is space to keep the rescued satos. ADLA does not have a shelter; instead, we use foster homes (if available) and/or board our rescued animals at a vet, which is also quite expensive. Some vets we have worked with, like Dr. Ramos, have been generous enough to allow us to board satos at a discounted rate. Still, if an animal has a contagious ailment and has to be boarded for, let's say, one month, boarding costs alone may amount to $200-300. Needless to say, rescuing animals in need is not cost-efficient. Without donations/grants and regular contributors, the satos of Puerto Rico would be helpless.

On that note, we are still desperately seeking donations for Homer. To refresh your memory, Homer was rescued in the beginning of June. He was a long-time resident of Los Machos Beach; he was also the "one I left behind," or so I felt when I left Puerto Rico back in September 2008. Homer is a gentle, submissive, and sad black lab mix that miraculously still has the ability to trust and love.

During my second encounter with Homer, I had to cut and remove pieces of an old leather collar from his neck; that is, whoever abandoned him did not remove or loosen his collar during his growth spurt as a puppy, causing the collar to literally grow under his skin. Homer simply sat in place while I removed chunks of leather from his neck, licking the air in submission, and hoping that my intentions weren't to harm him more than he had already been harmed. This dog had made me cry on several occasions, partly because of what the dog had evidently been through before we met and his pathetic demeanor, but primarily out of anger. This dog has been treated like a rodent for most, if not all of his life, but he still retains the ability to be the unconditional lover that we seek in animal companions. I could have done anything I wanted to Homer when I was removing his skin-engulfed collar, but he showed no aggression. This animal is amazing and warrants our help and support to start a life. He is approximately five years old, leaving a lot of time to love and be loved.

Thanks to Olivia Burris, his first sponsor, we were finally able to remove Homer from Los Machos Beach. He is currently recovering from several health problems, including heartworm, anaplasmosis, ehrlichia, entropic eyes, and sarcoptic and demodectic mange. We knew Homer was going to be a "doozie" of a rescue, but he is destined for greatness. I'm working on finding Homer a home in my neck of the woods (possibly for selfish reasons...can you blame me?). Let's get this boy on his feet and out to San Diego.

Please, donate what you can.

Thank you so much for reading,

Shanti

Back in action: 3 satos rescued from Los Machos Beach

2009-06-07T17:31:00.005-04:00

On Friday, June 5, Adri and Kathy, of Wag On Inn, gave me the present of all presents...both text messaged me, "We got him!!!"

Him = Homer

Homer is a black lab mix that I've known for some time. He's a long-time Los Machos sato who I first met about two or three months after I started the Los Machos Beach Project in 2008. Homer was/is a scared boy, but with a handfull of hotdogs and a trustworthy, high-pitched, loving voice, he'll sit and let you scratch behind his ears for as long as you are willing. When I first encountered this sato, he had absolutely no hair on his body because of mange and who knows what other types of mites. I began treating with him with Ivomectin as often as I saw him, and improvements began.

I was never able to rescue him, and have had nightmares/dreams about Homer since I returned to San Diego. While Los Machos has always had too many dogs for me to save with the resources we have, Homer was "the one" I've felt guilty for not physically rescuing myself because there was no space, money, or shelter willing to take such a fragile, unsocial, and sick dog. Thanks to Olivia Burris, Homer's first sponsor, and her continued love and hope for this special dog, and, of course, all of our donors who have helped the Los Machos Beach Project pay off our debts, Homer is safely at Dr. Casta's. But this is just the beginning...

Homer, finally safe...but he still needs our help!

Homer has heartworm, anaplasmosis, ehrlichia, entropic eyes, and sarcoptic and demodectic mange. While I am not surprised that Homer has all these health issues, our work has just begun for this darling boy. I am confident that Homer's socialization will be easy. He has a very sweet soul, and will just need some time to learn to trust. The most difficult aspect of Homer's rescue will be, of course, paying his vet bills. Please, be generous for Homer.

And stay tuned...two other satos were rescued with Homer from Los Machos Beach, Clementine and Maritza.

Something HUGE (and black and fuzzy) to write about!!!!

2009-06-05T17:48:00.002-04:00

HOMER WAS FINALLY RESCUED FROM LOS MACHOS BEACH!!!

Thanks to his primary sponsor Olivia Burris' support, hope, and love for our Homer, and Adri's willingness to rescue him from the beach, Homer, who has graced the presence of this blog through its existence, is now safely at Dr. Costa's getting treated for everything under the sun. That's right...he's safe, but unfortunately tested positive for heartworm, ehrlichia, anaplasmosis, and all the rest. With our help, he will be just fine.

I will post photos, more information, and how you can help over this weekend. I just had to share the good news the moment I heard it.

With tears in my eyes, I thank all those who helped Homer finally begin his journey into the life he's wanted and deserved for so long. So let's celebrate!!!

Status and Hope: Los Machos Beach Project 2009

2009-02-08T14:35:00.005-04:00

Hello, my loyal readers.

I have recently received a few comments/emails regarding the status of the Los Machos Beach Project. I am equally as concerned and curious as you are, believe me. The fact of the matter is that without a person in Puerto Rico willing to dedicate himself or herself to rescuing satos of Los Machos Beach, it's difficult to continue this project. There are thousands of animals in Puerto Rico, and those individuals and groups who continue to rescue are never without a dull moment. Rescuing is constant...but not necessarily at Los Machos Beach.

Blondie with her new family in Puerto Rico!!! Thanks to ADLA's Adri, Blondie finally found her perfect home!

However, I'm not giving up quite yet. The good news, that I've heard through the grapevine, is that Margie, a Ceiba local, continues to feed and check on the animals at Los Machos Beach regularly. Supposedly she is getting funding and other means of help from Island Dog's Katie Block. I have tried to get information regarding their efforts out there, but have received no responses. To get a bit personal here, I am frustrated to have so little control over something that so recently was my life...and seeing Boca every day will never allow me to forget that place and those less fortunate satos that still need a home like Boca's.

Colin and Boca on Sunset Cliffs in San Diego, CA. Boca loves tidepools...and Colin.

I will work harder on finding out if any dogs have been rescued from Los Machos Beach since I left, but I want to focus on moving forward from here. On that note, guess what project only has $200 in debt left to pay at Dr. Ramos' office??? That would this project. Finally, we are approaching the end of what seemed to be the never-ending debt from our past-rescued satos. ADLA has picked away at the Los Machos Beach Project debt since I left, and the light at the end of the tunnel is bright.

Dakota - once a Los Machos sata, now a chicken.

What's next? Well, a go-getter, high-school senior is doing her part to raise money to save a Los Machos Beach Sato. Caitlin of Shepaug Middle School in Washington, Connecticut has been fundraising for the Los Machos satos for her senior project. The last update I received on her progress indicates that her efforts will not only clear our vet bill, but will also allow us to rescue the first Los Machos sato of 2009!!!

So there's a mini update. I hope to have more good news sooner than later!

Worthy dog on cover of Sports Illustrated!!!

2008-12-28T00:28:00.006-04:00

Check out the full story here!

Is it really December?

2008-12-06T01:00:00.002-04:00

I'll spare you all the excuses I could list to justify my absence over the past month. In sum, it's been a struggle to juggle all the things I would like to do with my time now that I am going full-speed ahead at my job and still getting settled in California...and then there's the holidays.

Rest assured, my loyalty still resides with los satos, especially those of Los Machos Beach. We are, can you believe it, still in the hole by about $1000 (I think), and I really need to make things happen with that. Liz and Adri continue to rock the rescue world in Puerto Rico, and I can't justify asking them to go pick up more Los Machos satos if we haven't yet paid off our seemingly permanent debt for this project.

So my updates on this blog will be few and far between most likely until the New Year...and yes, we would love any help we can get for our Los Machos Beach Project debt. Once there is more funding, the rescuing at Los Machos Beach will continue...as will my blog posts.

As for my brilliant/predictable holiday present idea for 2008...ADOPT or SPONSOR a sato!! That's what's on my list this year...how 'bout yours?

Hope all is well...and that you aren't mad at me for disappearing for a month!

Shanti

Still no resolution

2008-10-20T00:27:00.006-04:00

As for that weekend update I had promised, well, there isn't much more to tell yet. The Arecibo Shelter has gotten some press lately for its unimaginably poor conditions, and we should have some news this week as to a resolution to the problem, as meetings are being held that should decide, hopefully, whether or not the shelter needs to be shut down (yes, this means a mass rescue effort will be involved) or kept open and run more properly (also meaning that a budget must be set and USED for the shelter. In an email I recently received, an animal activist and frequent volunteer at the Arecibo Shelter listed the following cases of neglect and abuse she has witnessed since the official opening of the shelter (as I've had to say before, brace yourself for this):

Unsterilized males and females are mixed in large kennels
Large and small dogs are also mixed in kennels; small dogs are not able to compete for food
No bowls for food and water (though the last time I went to the shelter, we bought approx. 30 bowls...hmmmm)
Dogs sleeping in puddles
Food on the floor (not to mention the dogs) is soaked in water and cleaning chemicals
Newborn puppies are dying from being soaked and left to lay on the wet and cold floors
Cats are eating kittens; no getting enough food
No one is cleaning the cat area; cats all mixed in one area
No one seems to buying food; food is primarily being supplied by animal activists and the public
No vet care for sick and/or dying animals
No vet on-site
Little to no medications or vaccinations are given to animals in need
Sick, injured, and dying dogs are kept on site until they die since they are not set up for humane euthanasia
Dogs run over by cars are also kept in pain without vet care
Dogs are given up for adoption without being sterilized

*Please note that I paraphrased the original email I received.

So yes, something needs to happen ASAP. As soon as we hear word of what's going to happen next, I'll let you know. As of now, we're preparing for all the options, whether it be a huge rescue mission with the help of other groups and individual rescuers on the island or having Jackie Fahey from St. Hubert's come down to show the Arecibo Shelter how it should be done. I have a feeling we may end up doing a mixture of the two.

You are what you eat

2008-10-18T12:42:00.004-04:00

This year, as you can see, Dakota will be a chicken for Halloween, and her sister, Renita (also an adopted sato), will be a pig. If Patty wasn't such a good mom, I might comment, "Poor babies!" However, when it comes down to it, it doesn't get much cuter than dogs dressed up as chickens and pigs. Thanks for sharing, Patty. While Dakota does look a bit annoyed in the photos (Ha!), I couldn't be happier she continues to live the life she always deserved.

More news to come this weekend...I promise. There's A LOT going on. For an update right now, check out Liz's summary of recent events at the Arecibo shelter. Yup, there's trouble over there again. It's a mess: an inhumane, gut-turning mess. And, of course, Amigos de los Animales will be involved in making something, though we are working on what, happen.

Arecibo Shelter In The News Again

About as flattering as it gets

2008-10-13T21:37:00.002-04:00

Thanks, Liz...words like this out of our fearless leader's keyboard leave me overtly flattered and a bit teary-eyed.

Liz's fare-thee-well to Colin and I

Moving, computer crash, working, and such

2008-10-13T21:04:00.003-04:00

All in that order...Colin and my move back to California began on September 26. We flew into Orlando, picked up our car nearby the airport, and started our trek cross-country. Two days into the trip, our beloved computer crashed on us, leaving me virtually inaccessible. I am still a bit hard to reach via email, as our internet is not technically hooked up yet, but I have started work (as of today), so at least I have a computer there. I apologize to all of you who have been waiting patiently (at least I hope!) for a response to your emails. I should be easier to access from now on.

We arrived in San Diego on October 6, and we are both completely enamored with the sunset we can watch from our home's balcony.

I will be much more regular with posts/updates within a week or two, but desperately need to get settled into our house, job, and all the rest that comes with moving ~3000 miles before I can be the blogger I once was.

As of now, no new dogs have been rescued from Los Machos Beach, as we are still paying our bills. However, things are looking up, as we now are only about $700 in debt. It's just so much easier to swallow than a couple thousand, isn't it.

I'm already missing the satos desparately, though looking at our Los Machos-rescued sata Boca everyday won't allow me to forget them and the fact that those wonderful dogs need to be in the same boat Boca is...that is the truly loved, well-fed, and frisbee-playing boat.

Shanti

FYI:Sending Checks

2008-09-19T14:32:00.002-04:00

For those of you who want to send checks to help us with our lack-of-funding issue, please note that the address for the Los Machos Beach Project has changed to the general address for Amigos de los Animales.

Please make checks payable to:
AMIGOS DE LOS ANIMALES, INC.

Address:
Amigos de los Animales
ATTN: Los Machos Beach Project
PMB 357
1357 Ashford Avenue
San Juan, PR 00907

Also, please add LMBP to the memo line of the check. Sorry for any confusion. All changes have been made to the sidebar of this blog as well.

Thanks SO much,
Shanti

Iris and Bambi

2008-09-17T06:46:00.006-04:00

Remember our Arecibo rescues Iris, who was so broken and mangled from being hit by a car, and Bambi, an old 5-pounder that has four teeth left? Well, ADLA's Liz has worked some magic with these two and found them both a place to go.

Iris will be going to Chicago with Alicia of Second Chance Rescue sooner than later. Unfortunately, Iris is still quite shy, but it seems in her best interest to send her now and allow her to adjust to the domesticated life in Chicago versus adjusting in San Juan only to be put through the traumatic experience of air travel months after she comes around.

Bambi, on the other hand, is being scooped up by foster mom extraordinaire Adrienne of Wag On Inn. Though details are still being ironed out, Bambi should be flying as a carry-on on next week's flight to Newark on Sept. 26.

As for other Arecibo rescues, though I've been waiting to get pictures before posting the news, Sebastian (six-month-old silver tabby that thought my dog, and anything else for that matter, was his momma, or at least some milk-producing being) was adopted about a month ago by a co-worker of my friend Kate in Chicago. I received a lovely drawing from one of Sebastian's new family member saying that he is "the coolest cat."

Zoey, our orange foster puppy who battled the odds, was also adopted by a co-worker of Kate's at the Veterinary Specialty Center in Buffalo Grove, IL. Needless to say, I've been dying to see how big both of them have become, if Zoey has full coat of fur finally, if Sebastian has gotten over his suckling needs, and all the rest. Rosa, Adri's rescue from Arecibo with the unforgettable underbite, was also adopted in a heartbeat through Wag On Inn.

Today, a woman I have gotten to know quite well via phone, Marlene, is coming over from the small town Utado to ship off her rescued pups Diamonte, Cuba, and Miriam (pictured above as the "Bandana Gang"). They will be shipped up to Boston where ADLA's Rosina will pick them up and shuttle them off into foster care until the ADLA fundraiser she's planned on Sept. 19. Boy, do we need one of those. I know it's getting old to hear about it, but we still need nearly $5000...and it's not like we've stopped rescuing either. Our bill continues to grow. What's scary now is that we will HAVE to stop soon if our bills continue to go unpaid. As generous and patient as Dr. Ramos has been, enough is enough.

My focus this week, to raise $300 for Los Machos Beach's Marley, whose heartworm treatment began on Sept. 2. He has been cleared to go to New Jersey on Sept. 30 for the TEAM SATO walk I've discussed in a previous post. However, he has not even been partially sponsored. Anyone wanna throw this guy a bone, made of money???

Thanks so much everyone,
Shanti

The delay in posts

2008-09-11T09:54:00.006-04:00

I apologize for not writing for awhile. We have a bunch of upcoming trips for satos including an adoption event in Boston arranged by our lovely Rosina of ADLA, another adoption event coordinated by the Monmouth County SPCA for their big dog walk fundraiser, specifically for "Team Sato," co-arranged by Wag On Inn's Kathy, AND a big shipment of satos going to St. Hubert's on Sept. 26. As if that weren't enough, Colin and I are also shipping ourselves to Orlando on the morning of Sept. 26 along with our sata Boca, where we will commence our 10-day road trip cross-country, stopping along the way to see dearest family and friends on the way to our new, by-the-beach home (we're officially homeowners!!!) in San Diego.

Needless to say, I've been planning many things at once, not leaving me much room for blog-writing. But I'll sqeeze in a bit of an update while I drink my second cup of coffee today.

Sofia, the recently rescued gato from in front of my new apartment in Ocean Park, is doing great. Turns out she was well on her way to having and large litter of kittens when I picked her up, but Dr. Ramos was able to perform the oh-so-important spay and abort procedure since she was not too far along. She is still at Dr. Ramos', though my running buddy Becca has asked to foster her for the rest of Sofia's time on the island. Fine by me!!! Eventually, pending Jackie's approval of course, she will go to St. Hubert's.

Marley, the most recent Los Machos sato Adri and I rescued, began his heartworm treatment on Sept. 2 and is doing very well. Dr. Ramos and his staff says Marley has been a very "chill" and happy dog, though he doesn't seem to be the biggest fan of puppies jumping on him. I guess Marley let out a corrective "grrr" upon being molested by some puplets at the clinic. It's alright, Marley. I know puppies can be a bit much sometimes. If all goes well with Marley's HW recovery, he will be shipped off to New Jersey for the SPCA event in New Jersey, where he will be up for adoption on behalf of "Team Sato."

Well, there's a bit for now. Hopefully it won't be so long until next time!
Shanti

Sofia

2008-09-02T15:09:00.014-04:00

Since all of Colin and my household goods have already been shipped to San Diego, we are currently living in the second bedroom of a friend's apartment in Ocean Park. Outside of our lovely new apartment, I've made a new friend.

I've named her Sofia, after one of our neighbors in our complex who was also feeding her from time to time. Sofia is a rare beauty. The first time I saw her, she pretty much just darted over to me, as if she knew what my area of work has been for the past year. She charmed me with her sweet mew, walked graceful figure eights between my legs, and began to expect me on a daily basis. As soon as I confirmed that she's no one's cat officially, I decided that she was just too gorgeous, sweet, and adoptable for this street life. The truth is there are so many cats in Ocean Park that rescuing each one we see within its half-a-mile radius would not work out so well considering our limited resources. Most of the time, spay/neuter and release is the best option. That being said, there are always exceptions.

Sofia's one beauty blemish: a patch of what seems to me like mange or possibly an old bite wound still in the process of healing.

So, now that Colin and I are officially carless, Liz was kind enough to loan me her ride for the morning so that I could bring Sofia into Dr. Ramos. Boca came along for the ride, for what turned out to be an oh-so-dramatic nail trimming. That's right...our Boca is a drama queen. In her defense, however, it was her first nail trimming. She bled a bit, too...poor baby.

Boca, on the way to Dr. Ramos', very concerned that "her kitty" was yowling in the car. Boca proceeded to stick her tongue between the grating of the kennel door, offering her support as best she could.

Sofia didn't seem to mind Boca at all. In fact, she seemed to provide Sofia some comfort.

So Miss Sofia is now safe, though I'm sure a bit scared and shocked. First we'll get her spayed and vaccinated. Then we'll find her a home or shelter to go to. I am hoping she will be a relatively inexpensive rescue. If all goes according to my master plan for her, her rescue and shipment should only cost around $200.

If you feel so inclined to sponsor Sofia, you'd be making a great investment!!!!

Thanks for reading,

Shanti

ALDA featured in Orlando Sentinel!

2008-08-31T13:06:00.000-04:00

Many of Puerto Rico's stray, abused pets live in peril

Blondie in foster care and other good news!

2008-08-26T10:31:00.010-04:00

While we are still financially struggling, only having received $250 recently (though so much appreciated) in donations toward our vet-bill debt, I remain hopeful that our efforts will eventually make some funding appear. Now would be a good time to have money start growing on trees.

On to the happiest of topics, Adri has been working with me to find a place for Blondie to go, since for whatever reason we have been unable to find an adopter for this blonde piece of perfection. Blondie is finally out of her kennel at Dr. Ramos'. Until we find her a place to go, she will be staying at Adri's house in foster care. She's doing very well there. Adri is about to leave for the U.S. until mid-September, and Blondie may not be going anywhere until then. However, at least she is playing with other dogs now and getting A LOT more excercise!

In other great news, it looks like Liz has lined up a spot for Iris with a woman who fosters dogs for Second Chance Rescue in Illinois. Iris may still need more recovery time in Puerto Rico, as her front leg was never amputed but is still healing. This leg is not going to be functional, but based on his professional opinion, Dr. Ramos decided she could keep her front leg. A foster situation will be great for Iris, as she is still quite nervous around humans and needs socialization before being adopted.

In even more great news (it's been a nifty week, eh?), our newly rescued Marley was recently featured in a Boston paper, North End News! Fellow ADLA rockstar Rosina arranged the whole thing and asked for a bio of any dog we thought might need a boost in his/her adoption possibilities. Here's what we came up with for him:

*Marley* is a one-year-old, border-collie mix Amigos de los Animales recently rescued him from Los Machos Beach in Ceiba, Puerto Rico. Los Machos Beach is a regular dumping ground for unwanted dogs and is known for mass poisonings and beatings of the abandoned animals who have no choice but to live there. *Marley* was a long-time resident of Los Machos Beach. (If you would like to read more about the Los Machos Beach Project, please visit www.losmachossatos.blogspot.com. Unfortunately, it was witnessed that during his time on the beach, large rocks were thrown at him, he was hit and kicked by a group of teenage boys and was intentionally hit by a car. Despite his experiences, *Marley* is undeniably trusting and loving. His favorite activities include following people around and being scratched behind his ears. He is approximately 45 lbs. and is currently undergoing heartworm treatment. He has already been neutered and vaccinated . He has not shown any signs of aggression and enjoys the company of other dogs. In sum, Marley is an amazing dog. Marley is desperately seeking a sponsor and/or adopter. Once he is given a clean bill of health, he finally will have the chance for a happy, healthy life filled with love he so greatly deserves.

No bites yet from Marley's media debut, but we'll see what happens. I do think Marley is an excellent candidate for St. Hubert's, so he will be all set either way.

Remember Cha Cha and her little cuties? Well Cha Cha has officially become the pet of one of Dr. Ramos' staff members, Ivania. She just couldn't let her go, and I don't blame her. As for Cha Cha's puppies, at least the three that remained after four were adopted out by Dr. Ramos' staff and two died, check out these pics below:

One of Cha Cha's puppies, now named "Danger," in his new home Asbury Park, New Jersey. Danger was adopted out through Wag On Inn, our trusted foster-care-based rescue group in New Jersey.

Danger now has a partner-in-crime, Dakota.

So, despite our financial stress, things aren't so bad in ADLA rescue world. Please keep the donations coming if possible. We'll continue to do our best to keep these animals healthy and happy.

Muchas gracias,

Shanti

Two more rescues, no sponsors, $3000 in debt

2008-08-19T16:12:00.005-04:00

What a morose title, eh??? Well, I'd be lying if I told you we have enough money to pay our ever-expanding vet bills for the Los Machos Beach Project and Amigos de los Animales...not even close. We're in the hole big time, by thousands of dollars. All together, Liz, Adri, and I would wipe our slate clean with 6 or 7k.

I know that the majority of the individuals who read this blog have continuously sacrificed chunks of his/her paychecks to support the Los Machos Beach Project. Therefore, I'm not just asking for your donations, as I often do. Can you help me brainstorm? We need a large sum of money to get us back on our feet again, I have to clear my bill at Dr. Ramos' before I leave, and, by the way, we have two new rescues to support. Let's talk about these special boys for a bit...then, we'll get back to raising money.

So Adri came to Los Machos Beach with me on Sunday. I was hoping to find Toby. He's gone, it seems. I did hear a rumor that another group may have rescued a few dogs out at LMB and have emailed them to see if some of the dogs I know to be missing were a part of their rescue list. No response. Anyway, we brought loads of salchichas and fed the masses. Here are some photos from our visit.

Homer, whose skin conditioning is worsening, was hanging out by the Avis parking lot like he used to months ago. He usually stays within the fenced-in yard of an apartment complex across the street from Avis. He needs out help in such a big way...it makes me feel helpless.

Members of the regular crew "of the forest" next to Los Machos Beach. From left: China (pronounced "chee-nah"), Lola, Negrita, and Willie. China and Negrita got some head-petting (still with a bit reservation) along with their salchichas, but Willy and Lola still remained at their comfortable distance from us.

Hammond, aka "Ham", is sort of a new kid on the block though I've seen him during my past few visits to LMB. Looks a lot like a purebred Weimaraner, eh? So sad. The first time I saw this beauty, he wouldn't come within 50 feet of me. On Sunday, he was much more brave.

Marley, my darling boy. He pranced up to us at the fish market, tail wagging as usual. Unfortunately, this time he had a noticeable limp. As I wrote in my second-to-last post, there are still a couple of super adoptable satos that would be "easy" rescues in terms of placing in shelters in the States due to how social they are...Marley is one of them. As for Spot/Pinto (white with reddish-brown spots), Juan, my fish-market friend, told me that Pinto had been missing for 5 days.

Two new puppies, dropped off a couple of weeks ago says Juan, who need a lot of socialization. Though adorable, they were not keen on human affection, from us at least. Can't really blame them considering the life they most likely live on the beach.

So while we are in debt, I tried my best to be strong and have my only mission that day at Los Machos Beach to be to find Toby and introduce Adri to Los Machos Beach. Adri has offered to visit Los Machos Beach, hopefully at least 1-2 times a month, when I leave. Here's an excerpt from her blog about her first visit to Los Machos Beach:

Shanti took me to Los Machos Beach in Ceiba on Sunday morning so I could see where all the beach kids are because she's leaving at the end of September. I will try to go there every couple of weeks so our rescue efforts can continue there too. I could never fill her shoes and I'm more than a little nervous about biting off more than I can chew - but where there's a will, there's a way.

PLEASE GOD!!, Let someone step up to the plate and help out at Los Machos Beach!!!!!

Alas, my efforts to not rescue anyone except Toby did not go as planned. After not finding Toby, hearing about Spot's disappearance, and seeing Marley limp across the sandy road, we decided we couldn't leave without Marley. In a nutshell, I have been emotionally overwhelmed by the disappointment and feeling of loss whenever I return to that beach to see my favorite satos are gone, missing, possibly dead. I could not let Marley disappear as well...And by the way, Homer has got to be next.

In the same day, Adri, Sally from PARE Este, and I also had to go over to the Fajardo Dump, as the landfill is called, to find a Dalmatian Liz requested we pick up.The Fajardo Dump rescue mission was unsuccessful. A man working at the dump said that an animal control vehicle came and picked up some satos from there, including the female Dalmatian we were looking for. I believe Liz is still working on trying to rescue the Dalmatian from the Humacao shelter with the help of Dead Dog Beach's Sandra Cintron. Instead of rescuing the Dalmatian, however, we found a sweet Puerto-Rican-Terrier (not an actual breed, so you know, but what we call the undefinable mix-breed dogs that look terrier-esque) puppy who Adri named Moe at the Fajardo Dump. Check out his darling little face:

Adri picked Moe up, and that was that. He stayed in her arms throughout our car ride back to San Juan, while I stretched my non-driving arm into the back seat to give Marley as many reassuring head-pets as he needed.

So you could say it was a successful rescue day, but the practical side of me is screaming for help. With at least a $3000 bill at Dr. Ramos' from unpaid vet expenses of Los Machos satos such as Cha Cha and her pups, Annie, Nugget, Chip, Lulu, and Bongo not to mention other rescues I've been involved including the Arecibo rescues, what am I thinking to take in two more dogs!?!??!?!

So this is where you guys come in. I am not asking any of you to empty your bank accounts more than you already have, but I am asking for your help. If you haven't spread the word already, please do. If you feel compelled to do a little of your own fundraising for us, have a local animal shelter that might want to share some of its funding, and/or come up with any other ideas, BRING IT ON!!! I will be working on some funding possibilities as well, but will take all the help I can get. In the grand scheme of things, $3000 is not a lot of money...so it's doable. It would require 6 $500 donations or 12 $250 donations. Not too bad, right?

Marley at Adri's house

Marley and Moe have not been sponsored yet as well, and unfortunately Marley ended up being heartworm positive, which in itself will cost $250. When I can no longer rescue dogs in Puerto Rico myself, I will be dedicating my free time to the main topic of this post: funding (as well as a couple other things like outreach and trip planning).

So here is my desperate plea for your help. Do what you can, but know that I appreciate how much support this project has already received.

To end on a less pathetic and positive note, it looks like ADLA's Adri is willing to check up on our Los Machos Satos when she can, which will definitely help me sleep better at night when I leave for California, which by the way is officially happening on September 26. Colin and I have officially moved out of our apartment and into our friend Rachel's house with our animals. All of our stuff (beds, couches, etc.) are on their way to San Diego. It's really happening...crazy.

30 satos cause Arecibo school to shutdown

2008-08-08T12:30:00.002-04:00

On Wednesday, 30 stray dogs decided to grace an Arecibo elementary school with their presence, causing the school grounds to be closed. There are rumored reports that one of the so-called "wild" dogs, supposedly a pit bull, lunged at a student only to be stopped by a group of school employees.

People at the school are complaining that it took much too long for the govement to seize the animals, but eventually all dogs were loaded into trusks, some unventilated, and off to, you'll never guess it, the Arecibo Municipal Shelter. And no, it isn't even open yet. So not only does Jose and the rest of the crew at the Arecibo shelter have enough animals to take care of that have been dumped over the past number of weeks, they now also have 30 more goverment-dumped animals to deal with without any finacial support from said government.

This again validates that Law 67 in Puerto Rico is an absolute joke. How can a law be effective if even the government of Puerto Rico has been proven to break this law continuously, like in this case not even providing basic necessities such as FOOD to this shelter?

Grrrrrrr,
Shanti

It's time to spill the news

2008-08-06T14:29:00.018-04:00

My early morning trip to Los Machos Beach on Monday was sort of a bust. Well, the only reason I sound so defeated is that I did not find Toby. Such a bummer, I know. On top of that, I forgot my camera. I am currently in Washington D.C. until August 11, but will go back out to Los Machos Beach after I return to Puerto Rico. What was great about the experience, however, was that while I saw many of the regulars, so many faces were missing from Los Machos...I know that often is not a good thing, but in this case it truly was.

BASS

This morning I had a moment out there and realized that you and I have managed to rescue 30 satos from Los Machos Beach since the end of January 2008. Every now and then, I have to remind myself that is a huge accomplishment instead of, at times, thinking more of these animals should already be in loving forever homes by now.

DAKOTA

Now if we add the number of animals rescued from other areas of Puerto Rico, you and I have been key players in the rescue of around 50 satos and gatos on this island since the launching of this blog. And at this point, we all know how much energy, money, and emotions go into each one of these rescues. So let's take a moment...It's time to pat ourselves on the back now, seriously.

CISCO

This blog has been running for a bit more than six months now, and I never could've imagined the response it has received. I get emails from England, Thailand, Canada, even New Zealand asking questions about the animal welfare issues on the island of Puerto Rico and the famous Los Machos Satos. Most of all, many of you that have found this blog have become more than Los Machos Satos fans...you've become friends, a support group, a family of sorts to me.

ROCCO

Now you're asking yourself, why is Shanti getting so sappy in this post? It's true...I have a reason that I've been waiting to broadcast for a few months now. Awhile back, Colin decided that the Coast Guard was no longer his career of choice. At the end of September, his duties as an officer in the U.S. Coast Guard will be fulfilled, and we will no longer have financial means to stay in Puerto Rico.

CHALUPA

We will be returning to San Diego, California, where my former full-time position as an environmental biologist for a consulting firm is still waiting for me and where Colin will begin to pursue his graduate degree in something along the lines of sustainable urban planning. Our official exit date from Puerto Rico is still uncertain, but most likely will fall around the end of September.

ANNIE

I've been waiting to post this news for some time in hopes that I would have an idea of what will become of the Los Machos Beach Project and this blog. Alas, it has been much harder than I had hoped to find someone to pick up where I left off in terms of rescuing in Ceiba. What is comforting is that so many more people know of the animals living at Los Machos Beach now, and I can only hope that this beach will receive the same attention as Dead Dog Beach in terms of spay/neuter programs and rescue efforts. Still, I'm heart-broken to leave those dogs there, tearing up right now in fact, and feel extremely guilty when I think about it too much. However, Los Machos Beach will never be sato-free until this island admits to its animal welfare issues, faces them head-on instead of masking them. We could continue to rescue for years, and this viscous cycle of abandoment and abuse would not stop...Not without a complete make-over of this island's priorities, policies, and their enforcement.

BOCA

But I'm not gone yet! I still want to grab a few more satos from Los Machos Beach before our car is shipped, including Toby who has an adopter waiting patiently for me to find him. I'm sure if we had sponsors for a few other Los Machos Satos (hint, hint) that my fellow Amigos could take care of their placement and shipment if I leave the island before they are ready to go. Please email me if you are interested in sponsoring a Los Machos Sato. I promise to take more pictures next time I visit Cieba so you have a better idea of who needs to be rescued!

Here's who I have in mind right now:

Pinto, aka Spot..Let's get him off the beach, shall we?

So, there it is. The big news. I am 100% still going to be an active member of Amigos de los Animales and writer of this blog. Unfortunately, I will no longer be able to contribute in the ways I enjoy most. Sigh.

One more month of saving satos,

Shanti

PHOTOS: All photos, minus the last one, are of some of the satos rescued since the lauching of the Los Machos Satos blog. They all are in loving homes because of you. Good job, guys.

Rocco and Jenna

2008-08-01T22:38:00.004-04:00

Former Los Machos sato Rocco and Jenna, one of the five fantastic members of his forever family:

I absolutely love these photos...priceless. What a lucky sato!

Shipment success!!!

2008-07-31T20:13:00.004-04:00

Some rushed photos of some of the lucky animals that are currently on their way to New Jersey:

Kira, a rescue of ADLA's Stewart

Lulu

Bongo, whose big ole ears were retracted due to nervousness in this photo

Chip, who is fat and furry now

The itty-bitty kitty of Liz's 5 fostered kitties sent today, doing some yoga in the back of the kennel

A total of nine rescued animals will be sleeping at St. Hubert's tonight. It's a good day. On that note...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, COLIN!!!!! (who is currently doing his Coast Guard thing out on the ocean, so celebrating will commence when he returns tomorrow)

(pssst....it's Liz's birthday tomorrow also!)

Zoey AND Sebastian: Off to Chicago!

2008-07-30T17:33:00.007-04:00

Yesterday, my nearest and dearest Kate, along with her cousin Paul, took Zoey and Sebastian on a plane ride to Chicago. Both sweet critters traveled as a carry-on. They were both as quiet as can be and had not one accident...what perfect babies.

My darling foster children, keeping each other company in their carrier, on the way to the airport

Kate is confident that she will be able to find homes for both Zoey and Sebastian through her extensive connections in the animal world of the suburbs of Chicago. Lucky for her, they are unbearably cute and shouldn't be hard to adopt out.

Since Zoey and Sebastian left yesterday, our apartment is eerily calm. Boca spent all of last night searching for her "kitty." (While Sebastian was here, I would say, "Where's your kitty, Boca?" She would find Sebastian and look up at me as if to say, "Here he is!") I feel bad for Boca, but I have to admit it is nice to have our apartment back to it's regular population size. Scout, our cat, has come down from on top of the fridge and has willingly reclaimed his territory and his position as overseer of apartment activity.

Scout, reigning from his throne with his fellow watchers

Tomorrow, we have another shipment of animals, 11 total. The shipment will be for Chip, Lulu, Bongo, Kira (a rescue of ADLA's Stewart), and 5 kittens that Liz has been fostering for quite some time. The weather is right on the edge of being too hot, so let's keep our fingers crossed for a successful shipment. Thanks to Denise Karamitsos, who volunteered to pick up our satos and gatos tomorrow night, and Jackie Fahey, director of St. Hubert's, we were able to arrange this prospective shipment without an arranged flight with a flyer. Instead, our furry friends will be flying via Priority Parcel Service of American Airlines.

Once we get these animals to St. Hubert's, we will finally have room for Toby and possibly other Los Machos satos as well.

Time to send some satos!!!

2008-07-23T11:02:00.004-04:00

It's sato-sending time!!! We are working on getting another trip together right now to send the following dogs from Los Machos beach:

Lulu and Bongo, the day they were rescued. Bongo's ears remain equally as phenomenal.

Chip on the day of his rescue as well, the same day as Lulu and Bongo...This dog is a huggable mess of love.I will miss him dearly.

In other traveling news, little Miss Zoey is being scooped up by my best friend from college, Kate. Kate is visiting me in Puerto Rico with her cousin, Paul. I admit to having a bit of a pep talk with the puplet before Kate arrived and told her to lay on the uber-cuteness in order to reel Kate into taking her to Chicago. Kate works at a specialty animal clinic in the suburbs of Chicago and is convinced she will be able to find Zoey a home in no time, as well as give her any further medical attention she may need. It's a win-win situation really.

So how can you help? Well if anyone feels like being directly responsible for getting one of these priceless pups that much closer to their forever home, sponsoring the shipping cost of any of the above satos is the way to go!! Let me know if you are interested!

As for my Toby-pick-up mission...we have nowhere to put him!!!! Don't worry, I'm working on it. However, I can't rescue him until we get some of our already rescued pooches off the island. Soon, buddy, soon...I promise. I may still be heading out to LMB this week. I'll keep you updated.

Thanks so much!
Shanti

Back to life and catching up

2008-07-18T09:19:00.008-04:00

Zoey, hanging out on one of her many puppy-training pads. She's totally newspaper/puppy pad trained...very impressive...and easy for me to clean up!

Sorry it's been awhile. California took the life out of me, and I needed a bit of time to catch up since returning this Tuesday. Zoey is back in the Santulli household, and boy is she a different dog. Don't get me wrong...She's still totally pathetic and has some issues to overcome, but her legs look normal again, her cough has pretty much disappeared, and she's a wiggly, no-cares-in-the-world puppy. As it should be. We visited Dr. Ramos yesterday, who said that Zoey looked great. She even got her first booster shot. Today, Colin and I get to give her her first bath! Sebastian, the Arecibo kitten we rescued a few weeks ago, is still reeking havoc in our apartment. He also saw Dr. Ramos yesterday and received his second booster and rabies vaccine and tested negative for FIV/Feline Leukemia. He should be ready to go on our next flight to St. Hubert's (at which point our dog, Boca, will whine in withdrawal of her kitty for days, and our cat, Scout, will party like it's 1999 in honor of regaining his throne).

Zoey, chewing on her favorite treat, compliments of Cody. She'll even keep one in her mouth while she goes to the bathroom.

Iris has not had her surgery to amputate her leg yet. Dr. Ramos would like to see a little bit more meat on her bones before he performs her surgery. She definitely looks like she's fattening up, and she is on painkillers to help her get through the day with such horrific wounds. Bambi is ready to go "home." "Home" for now will be at Liz's apartment, though right now Liz is tied up with a handful of kittens and a recently rescued puppy from the Arecibo shelter.

For those of you who do not know yet, Liz and Efren trucked out to Arecibo (while I was in CA) and attempted to pick up the remaining 14 or so puppies. Alas, most of the puppies we saw while vaccinating the entire facility had died. Six puppies were saved, however one died in Liz and Efren's car on the drive back to San Juan. A majority of the pups are being boarded with Gloria at Save a Sato. Liz is hanging on to one lucky pup, who she calls "Freckles Beckles," who will soon be traveling stateside to her new forever home with our beloved volunteer, donor, and friend Chrissy Beckles. Chrissy has already lovingly named her soon-to-be new family member Boom Boom (pictured on the right with one of Liz's foster kittens; photo from LIz). How sweet!

In Los Machos news (I know, it's been awhile!!), I have some sad and happy news about the Cha Cha clan. Awhile back, two of Cha Cha's pups fell ill and did not make it. However, three of her lucky pups found homes among friends of Dr. Ramos and his staff (they have all grown very attached to Cha Cha and her puppies). The remaining puplets are doing well and are ready to be sent to the States.

Blondie is doing fantastic! She's still a lovebug, which will never change. She just had another special chemotherapy treatment, to be thorough, and Dr. Ramos has officially deemed her in the clear of her tumors. Karla and I are working on finding her a home still...and if any of you are interested, the time is now!!! Let's get this girl out of her cage, shall we?!?!?

Chip looks like a totally different dog now, will a almost full coat of fur and a perma-grin on his face. He's my current personal favorite, and sometimes I fantasize about keeping him for myself. He's just that sweet. However, in a week or so, we are hoping to send him on his way to St. Hubert's or one of our other trusted shelters where he will find his forever family. I am going to miss that boy.

Lulu and Bongo are also ready to go. Lulu, in fact, who overcame Parvo beautifully, has become a bully. She has a bit of sibling rivalry with Bongo, and I would like to split them up ASAP. Poor Bongo just takes it like a good boy. Since Dr. Ramos' is fully booked right now, they remain in the same kennel. I am hoping to send one of the two to a shelter in the States within the next week.

I will be going to Los Machos on Tuesday or Wednesday of next week to FINALLY pick up Toby, given that Dr. Ramos can make some room for him. Toby does have an adopter who has been waiting patiently for our busyness to die down. We currently have a boatload of animals to care for and not enough money or room to do so. Therefore, our abilities to continue our flow of Los Machos rescues has retarded a bit. I think of those dogs everyday, which is enough to bring a tear to my eye relatively often. However, there have been dogs in need elsewhere, as there always are. I am looking forward to going back to my rescue stomping grounds. I'll let you know how it goes.

Dakota, a reborn Red Sox fan

Thanks for reading, as usual,
Shanti

An opportunity to rescue 14 puppies at the Arecibo Shelter

2008-07-09T11:27:00.014-04:00

If you have not yet read of our visit this past Sunday to the Arecibo Municipal Animal Shelter, please scroll down to my last post to get the scoop.

For those of you that have, we now have a golden opportunity to rescue the 14 remaining puppies at the Arecibo Shelter. Basically, Gloria from Save A Sato has agreed to board them for the bargain price of $1000. If that seems like a lot, trust me...it's truly not. As you may already know, we have no space right now at Dr. Ramos' for our rescues, or our own apartments for that matter. So we would really like to jump on this as soon as possible.

As for our already rescued warriors, all four are pushing through. Currently, Colin and I have Bambi and Iris until this afternoon. They will be going back to Dr. Ramos' where Bambi will soon have her infected tooth extracted and Iris will have her front leg amputated. Zoey is going to stay at Liz's until Colin and I return from California (oh ya, I'm leaving for CA tomorrow...coming back on Tuesday), and Rosa is living in Adri's bathroom. Zoey and Rosa are both showing signs of improvement.

Photos: (1) Four puppies who are still at the Arecibo Shelter (2) Bambi (3) Iris and her terrible injuries...painful to see, I know.

Arecibo Shelter rescues: on death's door

2008-07-07T08:03:00.022-04:00

This past Sunday (July 6, 2008), Liz, Efren (Liz's main squeeze), Adri, Colin and I all went to the Arecibo Municipal Shelter (in Spanish, Albergue de los Animales Municipio de Arecibo). Thanks to donations from Mayra Gardon Stella, Denise Karamitsos, Christina Beckles, Jenna & Jeffrey Massey, Janine Coppola, and Tina Strobel, we arrived at the shelter with enough DHLPP and Bordetella vaccinations, Drontal Plus, as well as other goodies for all the animals at the shelter. Several other volunteers came to help as well along with the staff vet tech, Jose, and the director of the shelter. We were a well-oiled machine (well, at least after the first hour of getting into the groove), backed in spirit by our gracious donors and supporters.

There were a lot of the same faces at the shelter that we saw during our last visit, as well as some new ones. Several dogs have also been adopted in the past week or two. In fact, two puppies were picked up by a couple while we were onsite. We popped on a couple of our recently donated collars (Thanks, Betsy!!), and they were on their way to a better life...hopefully. At the end of the day, there were too many dogs to rescue from the shelter, but four we could not leave without. I feel the best way I can tell you about our day yesterday is through the few pictures I had time to take. Enjoy...but for my fellow weepers, get the tissues out now!

A gang of shelter dogs greeted us with alert ears and curious eyes upon our arrival.

A sweet puplet who we caught outside of her fenced-in kennel. She smelt of urine. Jose said she was blind.

Four puppies taking a nap. When we arrived, very few dogs had any food in their bowls and had not been fed that day. With donation money, Colin ran out an bought 200 lbs. of dog food and extra bowls.

Here are the sad photos of those we felt we had to at least attempt to save while vaccinating and deworming approximately 80 animals at the Arecibo Municipal Shelter yesterday.

Adri fell in love with this girl who she named, Rosa. As we found out just yesterday from Dr. Ramos, Rosa has pneumonia, ehrlichiosis, and a very high white blood cell...in short, she's very sick.

Iris got out of her kennel at the Arecibo Shelter and was hit by a car. Her front leg is practically dangling from her body and her back leg isn't in much better shape. Liz and Efren kept her overnight on Sunday. Dr. Ramos plans to amputate her front leg later this week. Needless to say, she will need a lot of rehab.

Iris' front leg, yellow from the antibacterial spray Jose had applied earlier that day. She's was/is the saddest sight, poor girl.

Iris' back leg...none of these pictures do her injuries justice.

We found this pup amidst 5 other puppies in a kennel. Her legs were inflamed, and she had a terrible cough. Liz and Efren put her aside in on of our mobile kennels until the end of the day. She stayed with Colin and I on Sunday night and is now at Dr. Ramos'. She has been diagnosed with either kennel cough or influenza (possibly both). Her extreme respiratory condition is what caused the inflammation on her legs. Dr. Ramos is concerned that with her infection, septicemia (blood poisoning, often fatal) could become an issue.

At some point in the night at our apartment, the at-that-point unnamed pup's legs both became so swollen that they began to puss and bleed significantly.

We cleaned her up a bit and wrapped the back of her joints, the origin of the blood, with some cloth.Colin and I decided to name her Zoey (Origin:Greek...Meaning: LIFE)...she has to stand a chance with a name like that (right, Jamie?!?!)!!! Here she is, tending to her enlarged legs.

Admist the sadness and hope that she would be okay, we were enamored with how cute Zoey looked with her '80s-reminiscent leg warmers. Actually, we were just enamored with her, period.

Bambi is an old momma that caught Liz's eye. Based on Dr. Ramos' initial assessment of her health, she has to have a tooth extracted, the few remaining teeth she has are in disparate need of a dental, and, again, she is an old soul. She also was hit by a car, or something of the like, at some point in her past. Though her broken bones have healed, she cannot walk very well.

I am leaving for Dr. Ramos' now to pick up Iris, Zoey, and Bambi. Adri will be picking up Rosa later this afternoon. We will do all we can to help these animals. These animals are all exceptionally sick and/or in need of extensive veterinary attention. Please help us save these four Arecibo rescues. Let us know if you are interested in sponsoring (even partially) or adopting Iris, Rosa, Zoey, or Bambi. We will be glad to take care of them on this side until they are ready.

I'll write more later,
Shanti

In love with the Garden State

2008-07-04T09:17:00.017-04:00

I just got back from New Jersey yesterday midday. For those that need a recap, I left for Newark on Tuesday at 5:50 with 18 rescued satos (2 of which were our Los Machos satos Annie and Nugget), St. Hubert's-bound. At the airport on Tuesday, both Annie and Nugget were extremely well behaved, simply watching their surroundings cautiously and taking intermittent naps. I was a proud "momma." Upon arrival in New Jersey, Chuck, one of St. Hubert's ACOs, picked me up along with the dogs. I met up with Jackie at St. Hubert's Madison shelter, helped unload dogs, and cruised back to Jackie's for the night. On Wednesday, Jackie and I woke up at our leisure considering we did not go to sleep until 1 am. I woke up to seeing New Jersey in the daylight for the first time. With no concept of what New Jersey had to offer, I was in awe of how gorgeous and green the state is and found myself missing my original stomping ground that Jersey reminded me of, Missouri.

Jackie first brought me to the St. Hubert's in Long Branch. Understated, I was dazzled by the shelter's organization and cleanliness, and especially loved how each animal had luxury items such as a bed with something warm to curl up into. In my past animal shelter experiences, most of the low-kill shelters I visited retained a cold ambiance, but not St. Hubert's. Though I never had a doubt in my mind, my visit to St. Hubert's Long Branch assured me that Amigos de los Animales is partnered with a shelter of integrity and humanity, and I haven't even mentioned the organization's stellar staff yet either. I'll get to that.

After our short visit to the Long Branch shelter, we drove about 25 miles to Madison, New Jersey. The St. Hubert's facility in Madison is located on a beautiful spread of green land and has several buildings used for specific, animal-related purposes. It comes as no surprise, as Jackie explained the shelter's structure, that St. Hubert's has such a incomparable reputation for matching an animal with its human counterpart or counterparts. From the initial vetting and quarantine to the socialization and training of the animals that come through both branches of this shelter, St. Hubert's staff is undoubtedly the best of the best. During the afternoon I spent in Madison, I was bombarded by very-much-so wanted knowledge of animal behavior, shelter operation, adoption protocol, and on and on. As with anything, because St. Hubert's covers all of the if, ands, and buts in terms of precautions for animal care and health, it would prove difficult to question or lack confidence in how they do what they do. In sum, it was a fantastic experience.

Towards the end of my visit to St. Hubert's, a special visitor and his family paid me a visit. Remember "remarkable ears" Rocco??? Well, I swear his ears are more remarkable than ever. It was fantastic to see Rocco and to meet Christine Bengivenga and her gorgeous girls, Jenna, Jillian, and Gina. Man, has he got it made and is obviously smothered with love and care in his forever home. I have to admit to being very touched by their visit and so grateful to be able to see the faces, in vivo, of a family that took a chance on a Los Machos sato. If you don't remember, Christine contacted me after only seeing a picture of Rocco on my blog. She knew this dog needed to be a part of her family and made it happen.

And if I didn't already feel special enough, Jamie Sherr, ADLA's long-time supporter and volunteer, pulled out the red carpet for me Wednesday evening. Jamie arrived at St. Hubert's at around 4:30 with her darling sata, Zooey. Zooey was rescued by ADLA's Nydia awhile back. She was sent to St. Hubert's in North Branch, which is where Jamie met her match. Jamie, Zooey and I went for a walk in a park for about an hour, where once again I was enamored with Jersey's natural beauty. Soon thereafter, we went back to Jamie's to freshen up, drink a Stella (a personal favorite, not to be found in PR), and then headed out to dinner with her lovely comrade Gavin. Dinner was wonderful, compliments of dear Gavin. From there, Jamie poured me into the oh-so-comfy Newark Sheraton, compliments of her Starwood Preferred Guest points. I slept on what would seem like a cloud for approximately 4 hours, waking up for my 6 am flight at 4 am. Still, it was a dreamy 4 hours.

I would like to thank everyone who made my stay in New Jersey unforgettable. Not only were my experiences scattered with sincere hospitality and kindness, but I also left St. Hubert's/New Jersey with a heightened sense of what it means to save animals and how to do so more efficiently and with the best interest of the animals in mind. And, of course, I would like to especially thank Jackie Fahey, director of St. Hubert's, for allowing all of us of ADLA to benefit from her wisdom and her glorious animal welfare centers. Having adopted out nearly a thousand Puerto Rican satos, without St. Hubert's our rescue efforts would obviously by drastically less successful. And, for those of you who are weary of adopting a "shelter animal," I urge you to visit St. Hubert's and its crew, who, simply put, just do it right.

Photos: (1) St. Hubert's Animal Welfare Center in North Branch (2) inside hallway to the "Cattery" and "Kennel Area" at St. Hubert's Animal Welfare Center in Madison (3) the outdoor runs,which are connected to indoor kennels, at St. Hubert's Animal Welfare Center in Madison (4) Nugget, in her cozy bed at St. Hubert's (5) the Bengivenga girls and their main squeeze, former Los Machos sato Rocco (6) Annie and Nugget in transit to the St. Hubert's Animal Welfare Center in North Branch

And the cuteness continues at the Santulli abode...

Oh, and stay tuned because Amigos de los Animales is heading to the Arecibo Municipal Shelter this Sunday with plenty of vaccinations, dewormer, and other goodies. Thank you to those donors (you know who you are) who have helped us raise approximately $2000 for this cause.

Happy 4th!
Shanti

The Chipster: I LOVE this dog

2008-07-01T14:40:00.004-04:00

Chip is a former Los Machos sato, rescued a few weeks ago from the grassy area next to Avis. This pointer mix is awesome...he's such a lover.

Unfortunately, Chip does not have a sponsor yet....any takers???

Interspecies love, cont.

2008-06-29T18:06:00.003-04:00

Are you my mommy?

2008-06-29T09:20:00.006-04:00

Sebastian, rescued from the Arecibo Municipal Shelter a few days ago, is a special kitty. Not only did he purr throughout the entirety of his vet exam (yes, even when he got the thermometer up the butt), he also thinks dogs are friends...even more, Sebastian thinks Boca, my sata, is his mommy.

Sebastian, looking for "momma's milk"...lost cause, buddy.

Dog/Cat Nap

Boca and Sebastian have become partners in crime. Throughout the day, I find myself distracted by their incessant playing. My personal favorite is when Sebastian hurls himself onto Boca's hind leg, latches on with his claws, and Boca proceeds to walk around our apartment with her personal terrestrial remora "suckered" onto her. Also, Sebastian's new favorite toy is Boca's tail. They are ridiculously sweet together.

Sebastian does not have a sponsor and, even better, would love to find a forever home...though those who have met him know that won't be too hard. He's a darling cat that got another, well-deserved chance at life.

Field trip to Arecibo; Lulu has Parvo

2008-06-26T14:46:00.010-04:00

Yesterday, Liz, Jackie Fahey (Director of St. Hubert's Animal Welfare Center) and myself hopped in my car and drove to the new municipal animal shelter in Arecibo. The shelter is technically not yet open, but that hasn't stopped the masses from doing what they do here: abandoning animals. Please, let me preface this post by saying that I am still distraught from our experience yesterday, though I will, to the best of my ability, be as objective as possible.

Alma Febus, another local rescuer, was kind enough to give us a brief introduction of the situation there and introduce us to others involved in the development of this new shelter. The land the shelter is on would make any rescuer "oooo" and "ahhhhh": The vast green space and fenced-in dog runs create an ideal site for adoptions, spay/neuter and educational events as well as a low-cost vaccination facility. Forced to face reality and come out of "dream world," the simple truth is that this shelter could too easily become an "animal control" facility, especially given that it is going to be a Muncipal Shelter. Our purpose of going there yesterday was to extend a helping hand, show our willingness to aid in setting up a general shelter, health, and adoption protocol.

Even though they are not yet open, there were 87 dogs and one cat there. Because the word is out about the soon-to-open shelter, people have already ditched their unwanted animals on the grounds. While there is a vet tech, Jose, on staff, who we met and feel will be instrumental in our efforts, the government has not given the shelter any money for medicine or vaccinations, not even for food. If it weren't for a determined volunteer who donates loads of food for the 90 or so animals currently caged and waiting in the shelter, these animals would have starved to death.

We took a look around and met the animals. I held back tears on at least 3 occasions that I can recall. I was horrified. The stench, the faces, the pain and agony that some of these animals were obviously going through was overwhelming, to say the least. While Jose and others are doing the best they can to keep these animals comfortable, they have no resources...nada. At one point, a sweet black puppy came charging at us, having just freed herself from her cage. Jackie picked her up immediately, and it was evident that she didn't intend to let go until we got her to the vet. We also decided to take the one cat there, who I named Sebastian. After a 30 minute tour, we went into the administrative building to meet the director of the shelter. We discussed with her our hope that this shelter will not become another killing factory, and instead that animals may be able to have a chance to be adopted, as opposed to being euthanized before entering the door.

Towards the end of the discussion, I began feeling dizzy and numb in my extremities. I sat down, asked Liz to get me some water, and the rest is a blur. I remember a bit of hyperventilating and those around me offering me sugary substances, assuming that my blood sugar was low. Then, to make sure no one at the Arecibo shelter forgot us, I threw up (three times) on the floor of their administration building. Why or what's wrong with me? I have no idea. I'm assuming that it was a mixture of the fumes, my emotions and the heat. Shortly thereafter, thanks to me and my dramatic performance, we left with the black puppy and Sebastian.

We are desperately seeking donations for supplies such as locks for kennels, bowls, food, dewormer, DHPLL shots, Frontline, and all the other good stuff. I do feel that those we spoke with at the shelter were receptive to our comments, as we were theirs. We need to help the Arecibo shelter. Be as generous as you can be, and as you always are, and we promise to back up your donations with action. I fear, as soon as the Arecibo Municipal Shelter actually opens, those dogs will be put to sleep without a flinch. We don't need another place on this island to have its doors open to mass euthanasia.

On top of it all, when we finally reached Dr. Ramos' with our two rescues, we found out that Lulu, one of the two black puppies most recently rescued from Los Machos Beach, has Parvo. Again came the tears. Her brother, Bongo, is showing no symptoms and Lulu is holding strong. I just received an updated on her, and she so far hasn't vomited today nor has she had bloody diarrhea (her initial symptom of Parvo). Parvo, for those of you who may remember, is what killed Bella, another Los Machos Sato. In young puppies, an estimate of 80% do not make it. Hopefully, considering she was in very good shape otherwise, Lulu will fight through and Bongo will dodge the bullet as well.

Blondie seems to be responding well to the new chemotherapy, but it is too soon to tell. We are in the beginning stages of finding her a home, one that does not have other dogs (considering if she does have TVT, other dogs can get it) and is full of love.

Photos: 1) a dog room at the Arecibo shelter, 2) the little freedom fighter that Jackie scooped up, 3) Sebastian, 4) Lulu, quarantined in a kennel

Almost there!!!

2008-06-22T11:29:00.005-04:00

Well, on Wednesday, I posted an urgent need for donations toward a plane ticket that would allow 14-17 dogs to fly to St. Hubert's Animal Welfare Center in New Jersey, with me as the flyer. I was overwhelmed, in a good way, with the immediate responses from our beloved volunteers and donors, Jessica Bengels, Christine Bengivenga (Rocco's, of LMBP, mom), and Jamie Sherr. Because of these three rockstars, we only need $100 to cover the remaining balance of the plane ticket.

I have already booked the ticket for July 1, and am looking forward to spending a day at St. Hubert's on July 2 so that I can understand, in vivo, how this animal welfare center from the heavens works.

Blondie, in her famous "jailed sato" photo above taken by Liz, began her "special" chemotherapy to rid her of her growing sarcoma. I will find out on Tuesday (possibly tomorrow) how it went, or at least get an update on how she is doing.

More news soon to come,
Shanti

URGENT: Need a flyer or donation toward plane ticket

2008-06-18T11:19:00.002-04:00

A wonderful woman, Elba, was kind enough to donate her American Airlines miles to ADLA for our flight to St. Hubert's in the beginning of July. Unfortunately, all free Advantage member seats for July to Newark from San Juan are full. Therefore, we are in a bit of a bind. We have between 14 to 17 animals we were planning on sending out in the beginning of July, but currently have no way of getting them to St. Hubert's. If you feel so inclined, please email losmachossatos@gmail.com if you are willing to fly or contribute money for a plane ticket to get these animals to their soon-to-be-future forever homes! As of now, the rate for the flight we need on July 1 to July 3 is around $600. Crazy, I know, but sometimes it's just what we have to do. Please let us know if you can help!!!

In BVI withdrawal

2008-06-17T17:00:00.012-04:00

Colin and I got back from the British Virgin Islands on Sunday, and, well, we are in slight withdrawal of the daily dives, decadence, and dreamscapes we enjoyed while on our neighboring islands. It was the best way I could imagine celebrating a year of marriage. Here are a few of my personal favorite photos from the trip (and then back to sato business, I promise):

Today, Liz and I went to Dr. Ramos to check up on some of our satos and gatos. Everyone is doing well. Cha Cha and her pups are doing great, but will still be living at Dr. Ramos' for about another month before they will be ready to be shipped the U.S. Nugget and Annie are as cute as ever and will be on the next flight we have to St. Hubert's, though I have been speaking with a potential adopter for Annie the past few days...we'll see what happens.

Chip, Bongo, and Lulu are fantastic. The two latter adorable pups were as delightful as ever to see. Chip's mange is improving already, and I think he is slowly growing accustomed to life at Dr. Ramos'. He was a little shaky when he saw me, which broke my heart, but I think Chip in general has a bit of nervous energy in him. Can you blame him considering the life he lived as of only a week ago?

In Blondie-related news, we are going to try one more type of chemotherapy to attempt to remove the tumor that remains in Blondie's vagina that, as Dr. Ramos' staff told me, is unfortunately getting larger. The treatment costs $140, a small price to pay if this finally clears Blondie of her tumors. We still need to acquire the treatment, but will notify you of its outcome as soon as we get word. Anyone feel like sponsoring at least the cost of our last-ditch effort for Blondie? If successful, Blondie will be ready to go...imagine that. She's been living at Dr. Ramos' since April 4 of this year!

We are currently working on getting a trip set up for many of the above dogs as well as others. The more dogs we into forever homes, the more room we have to take in new rescues!!!

And finally, a new temporary addition to the Santulli household as of yesterday:

Annie, relaxing on our patio. She has taken to the "pet" lifestyle quite well. She is surprisingly already potty-trained and took very well to her leash. She makes fostering a sato look way too easy!

And as for those still on Los Machos Beach, it looks like sweet Toby has a home waiting for him in Pennsylvania!!! I will be picking him up next week and will start getting him ready to go!!! Also, in response to inquiries, Homer is still at Los Machos. He has been staying inside a gated area of an apartment complex, where he has been treated quite well (though they do not want another dog as a pet). He is still on my list of satos to rescue, though I am happy to say a few locals have been kind enough to give him some shelter and watch out for him.

Thanks,
Shanti

Sponsor a Los Machos Sato this Father's Day!!!

2008-06-09T20:12:00.024-04:00

First, about our morning at Los Machos Beach:

Karla and I left San Juan a little after 7 am this morning and headed out to Los Machos Beach. On the way, we discussed what our mission was for the day: to communicate with locals about any recent happenings on or around Los Machos including dog "sweeps," suspicious behavior, etc. I also wanted to do a bit of outreach, carrying with me a handful of business cards to give to anyone willing to be a "watchdog" for me in Ceiba. Considering we still have four adult dogs and nine puppies to ship to a shelter in the States, as well as Blondie, and not enough funding to cover all the accrued costs of the vetting, boarding, and shipping of all of the above, rescuing a sato or two from Los Machos today was not on the agenda...always easier said than done.

Upon arrival, we went straight over to the abandoned gas station about a half mile away from the beach to look for Toby, where I was told he might be. Alas, no Toby, but there was this other cutie hanging out that wasn't overtly friendly, but didn't mind eating hot dog pieces from the ground a foot away from me. Let's call him Wally, shall we?

We cruised on over to the Avis car rental storefront, where many a sato tend to congregate. We were greeted by sweet Chip. Chip is a recent drop off as of about a month and a half ago. He has adorable puppy energy, wags his tail more with his butt than his actual tail, and loves to be pet and talked to. Considering his puppy tendencies, he actually has a calm demeanor about him with a pinch of nervousness, never being too overly anxious or rambunctious. He's, simply put, an amazing dog.

Chip, a resident of the Avis parking lot near Los Machos Beach

As Karla and I were about to get back in the car to hit up other areas, I decided that maybe today was Chip's day to be rescued.

We then went to the beach, right next to the fish market and saw 10-15 satos, including two sweet little, 3-month-old, black puppies. I felt relieved at this point because I saw many familiar faces that I hadn't seen in a month or so. It would seem that in my past few visits to Los Machos Beach, many of the regulars were simply "somewhere else" while I was there. Perhaps it was too hot; perhaps they have another hideout that I'm not yet aware of in the forest by the beach. Either way, they were alive and doing well...relatively well considering they are still all homeless. Among the friendly faces I've been missing was our sweet little hound mix, Toby. I have been communicating recently with someone interested in adopting Toby, and will hopefully be able to pick him up soon. Unfortunately, still no sign of Gizmo. Where are you, buddy?!?

After my initial sense of relief from seeing Toby among others, it dawned on me that there was absolutely no way that we were going to leave the beach empty-handed. I called Dr. Ramos's and found out that they had two kennels left that I could use. Then I told Karla that her job, as my partner in crime of the day, was to pick the lucky satos that should be rescued. Yes, I was joking, but unless you've been to a place that has 20 puppy-dog eyes staring at you simultaneously, begging you to take them with you, do you know how hard it is to pick only two dogs. First thing's first, Karla and I need to talk to locals, our original mission. We needed some time to make the decision...

We went over to the fish market and spoke with Juan, a man who looks after the fish-market dogs including the recently rescued Cha Cha and Nugget. I've spoken with Juan many times and am a big fan of his. My favorite part of our conversation with him today was when he mentioned Cha Cha. He first asked how she was, and was blown away when I told him she had nine puppies. Then he said, in Spanish, "You let me know if she's a problem for you, and you can bring her back here," with a
smirk on his face. We then proceeded to make fun of him for missing his Cha Cha. It was darling. Granted, I know Juan agrees with me in one way or another that rescuing these dogs is much better than them living even in the protection of the fish market parking lot. Still, I LOVE that he asks me about her every time I see him, and that he obviously thought of her as pet, in his own way.

Juan told us that there had been no beach sweeps recently and that the last one he knew of was close to a year ago. He said that he knows people drop off puppies and dogs all the time. In fact, there were three new puppies in the fish market parking lot that were biting our ankles, playfully of course, while we were conversing with Juan. Juan also mentioned that many locals will pick up "the little ones" as their personal pets. I left him my card, actually three cards, and told him (through Karla's translation) that he can give anyone my information that may need help with an unwanted pet, spay/neuter for their pets, or with the dogs with Los Machos Beach. Juan was very receptive and endearing.

Karla and I decided to take the two black puppies, who we named Bongo (male) and Lulu (female), and Chip. How we came to this decision, I'm not sure. It's all a blur. With Chip, I worry about dogs near the Avis parking lot because they are in a common area for poisonings, out in the open, and in a relatively high-traffic area. Chip, also, has been all alone in that area for as long as I've seen him out there and is pretty regularly bullied by some other local satos since he's the "new guy." His mange and bite wounds were getting worse before getting better, on top of the fact he was covered in fleas and ticks. All these reasons led me to choose Chip. Bongo and Lulu, on the other hand, just got lucky. They also were receiving a fair share of negative attention from some of the adult dogs, including snarls and bites, causing Bongo and Lulu to squeal in terror. That was most likely the point at which Karla and I deemed them "saved."

We headed away from the beach and decided to drive down to the other side of the beach. Unfortunately, we found what I often find at this specific location: a dead dog. I can't be sure how this dog died, but he or she was wrapped up in a blanket before being dumped here.

A dead dog in the normal dead-dog dump on Los Machos Beach

The sadness continued at out next stop, back by the Avis parking lot. Madeleine, who I have not introduced you to, is a troubled dog. In any and all of my visits, she will not come near me and has some aggressive tendencies. She is hairless due to mange among other skin problems. She has scabs all over her body and is a walking skeleton. Today, something was different, something was even worse about her than normal. I found her laying in the grass, motionless. I walked over to her and she didn't immediately run away as she usually does. She just looked up at me as if saying, "Please don't hurt me." It was heart-breaking, to say the least. Karla and I decided we needed to take her to Dr. Ramos, possibly have her put out of her misery (her eyes showed pain I had never seen in an animal before). Then, some neighbors came up to us to and told us she had been hit by a car recently and would not eat or drink. In the past, she would, at a far distance, eat a handful of hot dog pieces I gave her in one swallow. She was on her last legs, or so it would seem.

Poor Madeleine

The neighbors, Olga and Juan (not the same Juan as from the fish market) gave us towels to carry her in. We tried to pick her up, she yelped, snapped at the air though aimed at us, and released herself from our grip. She scurried into the bushes, out of our reach. Karla tried to access her, and was growled at. We missed out opportunity to help this poor creature today. I can't help but regret not having a carrier with me today, because maybe if I had, Madeleine's pain would be over. I gave the neighbors my card, asking that they call me to keep me updated on her condition and to have those people who feed dogs at Los Machos to call me about her. Maybe they can help her in my absence this coming week (I'll get to that subject later). I haven't given up on her yet, and I don't want her to die out there. I want her, if she cannot be saved, to feel peace.

We ended the visit on a more positive note, picking up Chip across the street from where I found Madeleine. He was an angel, though nervous about being inside a car. Back to San Juan we went, three satos in tow. On the way back to the city, both Bongo and Lulu got carsick. Otherwise, they took advantage of the air-conditioned atmosphere and took a nap the majority of the car ride. Chip was in the back of our 4-Runner, laying on a towel and occasionally propping his head on the back seat to say hi to Karla and the puppies.

At Dr. Ramos, Bongo and Lulu were tested for the usual and ended up having hookworms. Otherwise, they are healthy little puplets that should be ready to be shipped in two weeks. Chip is, as I figured, covered in demodectic mange, which could take some time to clear up. He was heartworm and ehrlichia negative (WOOHOOO!!!), but weakly positive for anaplasmosis, which is treatable.

Well, it's been a long day. I am happy to say that three more dogs are off Los Machos Beach. As usual, we need sponsors for Chip, Bongo, and Lulu. Think about this: What a wonderful present a sponsored Los Machos Sato would make for Father's Day!! (Hence the title of this blog post, in case you were wondering.) Wow, this marks the first time in my life that I have solicited anything for a Hallmark holiday. All jokes aside, I encourage everyone to consider sponsoring one of these animals honor of your father this Father's Day, for a friend's birthday coming up, as a wedding present for animal lovers, and the list goes on. Not to sound like a broken record, but our budget is tight and our vet bills are overwhelming. We will do whatever it takes to improve the lives of the animals still suffering on the streets and beaches in Puerto Rico, and are asking you to do the same.

Still thinking about poor Madeleine,
Shanti

Photos: From top to bottom, Wally, Chip, Toby, Lola, a Los Machos clan, two new dropped-off puppies who are being watched over at the fish market, Bongo and Lulu, dead dog, Madeleine, Bongo and Lulu in the car, Chip being such a good boy at the vet.

P.S. I will be out of town, celebrating my husband and my first anniversary, from June 10 to June 15. I will be out of cellphone range and will not be checking my emails. I will return any messages when I return!!!

Satos missing, looking for answers; LMBP in "The Bark"

2008-06-04T11:52:00.012-04:00

I've been stalling to post this, but over my past few trips to Los Machos Beach, I have only seen 10 or so dogs. While this should seem like good news, we all know missing dogs could mean bad things. Maria, a dear friend of Amigos de los Animales, was kind enough to call the mayor of Ceiba's office to see if perhaps the local government had "removed" dogs from the beach. She was told that the city hadn't sent anybody to pick up dogs, and the City of Ceiba no longer has a contract with Humacao's Animal Control. It has also been rumored that local Ceibans may be removing dogs from the beach themselves, possibly taking them to be euthanized at nearby shelters or selling them for personal profit. The possibilities are endless. Universities around here used stray dogs in as test animals in labs. I met a man out there once who said he had picked up 3 dogs from Los Machos and gave one to his sister as a pet, one to a friend, etc. So who knows? My search isn't over for more definite answers.

Here are two of my personal favorite Los Machos satos that I have not seen over the past three weeks:

Gizmo: This long-time resident of Los Machos Beach loves belly rubs. A few weeks ago, when Liz and I picked up five other Los Machos satos, Gizmo was on my list to rescue and even had a sponsor (I'm still searching for him, Sandra!!!). Unfortunately, he was nowhere to be found and is still missing.

Toby: Also still missing, Toby has been rumored to be hanging out at the abandoned gas station near Los Machos Beach. However, I have had no luck finding him there. He's the sweetest little hound mix ever.

I'll be heading out to Los Machos again this following Monday with my dear friend Karla (Blondie's rescuer). With a native Puerto Rican Spanish speaker by my side, hopefully I can get answers we can work with from locals face to face.

In other news, guess what blog was mentioned in a recent article about Puerto Rican satos in issue #48 of "The Bark" magazine???? You got it...THIS ONE!!!! Pretty neat, eh? While primarily an article written for fellow animal rescue and welfare group Save A Sato by their own Twig Mowatt, a bit about ADLA's huge involvement with the rescue work at Dead Dog Beach is included as well as a brief mention of the horrific crimes occurring at Los Machos Beach, with the Los Machos Beach Project blog address in parenthesis. Needless to say, I was ecstatic when my nearest and dearest friend Martha called me to tell me the news.

And finally, if you haven't watched the most recent ADLA video, please check out my last blog post and watch it when you have 3 minutes and 22 seconds. In it, you will see some of our favorite Los Machos satos, including the ever-famous Dakota.

Recent rescue update: Cha Cha and her nine (not ten...we miscounted!!!) puppies are doing fine last I heard. Annie and Nugget will be spayed either today or tomorrow, but otherwise are ready to be shipped to the States as soon as we have a flight. Mouse is now being sponsored by Liz. He's still a bit on the timid side, but a little of socialization should do the trick.

Blondie?...Well, that's a more difficult situation. We found out that besides having the common and usually highly treatable canine transmissible venereal tumors, she does have a sarcoma in her vagina that will be more problematic to treat. Dr. Ramos is working his magic to find a way to treat her in a similar manner as before, with something like chemotherapy. Other possibilities for treatment would include basically burning off the sarcoma, which is extremely painful for Blondie, or surgery, which would require breaking her pelvis among other invasive techniques. Colin and I played with her for a bit a few days ago. Amidst all she is going through, her spirits are never down. She LOVES giving hugs, has the sweetest demeanor, and has won everyone over at the vet's office...which is why giving up on her won't be an option. All I can hope for is that someone may come along that is willing to see Blondie through her battle, simply because she is so worth it.

Though obviously she is a very special and needy case, would anyone be interested in adopting Blondie??

A new ADLA video; Support the cause!!!

2008-06-02T12:00:00.002-04:00

Such a small dog, such a large amount of puppies!!

2008-05-25T14:52:00.004-04:00

Cha Cha has officially given birth to 10, that's right, 10 little pups. Liz saw them a couple of days ago at Dr. Ramos' and was able to grab some pictures for us. So far, everyone's in the clear. However, it's a bit risky to keep them at the vet's office while they are so young, since they are so susceptible to any ailment that may come through. We don't, unfortunately, have a foster home for them, and Dr. Ramos has agreed to look after them at his clinic.

Cha Cha and her pups do not have a sponsor yet, and we sure could use some financial help these days. Not including the fact that they will have to be boarded at Dr. Ramos' for two months, each pup will need his or her shots, fecal tests and treatment, and all the rest. In sum, they will be quite an expensive bunch. If you feel so inclined, please click the donate button on this blog and contribute what you can.

Four satos need sponsors!!!!

2008-05-20T11:53:00.017-04:00

As for our four remaining Los Machos satos that are currently at Dr. Ramos':

Annie is doing great, healthy, silly, and happy, as always.

Nugget (pictured on the left, next to Cha Cha) is still a little sweetheart, and is being treated for ehrlichia. She will be just fine.

Cha Cha is going to pop any day now...keep your fingers crossed for healthy pups!!

Mouse is now being fostered by Nydia Brondo of ADLA. He's a healthy little chunk of love and will be ready for St. Hubert's in the very near future.

As of now, there is no scheduled trip to St. Hubert's. Whenever the next trip is, we're hoping to include Annie, Nugget, Mouse, and Blondie (we do not have results from her biopsy yet). I'll keep you updated. We are still gladly accepting donations for all of our recently rescued satos. Please, donate what you can!!!

Miss Blondie (most likely dumped after her past owner found out she had tumors that needed to be removed from her vagina) is dying to be done with chemotherapy and so ready to go "home," wherever and whenever that may be.
Donations to help pay for her medical expenses would be greatly appreciated!

Very gratefully,
Shanti

We miss you already, Bella

2008-05-15T14:21:00.004-04:00

Our little Bella could not battle through her developed case of canine parvovirus. Dr. Ramos let us know earlier today that she had passed. He said she did not seem to show signs of suffering during her last days. Well, she got some lovin' before she died, at least.

Rest in peace, Bella.

Sponsors Needed for our FIVE LMB satos!!!

2008-05-14T12:21:00.018-04:00

So I am officially back in Puerto Rico and ready to write a decent blog entry!!! To pick up where I left of last time, Liz and I rescued five dogs from Los Machos Beach last Wednesday, May 7. One of the primary goals of the trip was to pick up the recently sponsored Gizmo, but he was nowhere to be found. We haven't given up on him yet, but I was definitely disappointed that he missed his chance to leave the beach last week.

When we arrived, I actually did not see the usual suspects near the Avis parking lot. In general, the dog activity level was at an unusual low, though we did get there mid-day, and the heat could've been a factor. The most active area was near the fish market, where I usually don't even go. Why? Well, the six to seven dogs that dominate the fish market parking lot are "watched over" by local fishermen and restaurant regulars. In fact, before launching this blog, I was told two or three of the dogs that hang out there belonged to someone. My theory, prior to last week, was that it would be best/most helpful to rescue those satos that didn't have someone to watch over them as consistently. Regardless, we ended up taking two dogs from this protected area, and their "watchers" were happy to let us take them to a safer place.

The lucky five that made it the car with us last Wednesday are all currently living and being cared for at Dr. Ramos'... however, none of these sweethearts has a sponsor as of yet. Two of the five of these rescues seem to be pretty healthy considering, though Cha Cha and Bella (see below for more details of each of the rescues) can be classified as extra-special cases. Can you help???

Cha Cha: This pregnant girl waddled right up to us. Lucky for her, Dr. Ramos agreed to keep her at his clinic until she gives birth and until her babies are old enough to get their shots and be sent stateside. She should pop any day now!!!

Nugget: While I call every dog "nugget" and/or "love chunk," this dog retained "nugget" as her name for just being such a lovable and sweet nugget...golden nugget, that is. A local mentioned Nugget was recently pregnant, though we are having her x-rayed to make sure.

Bella: Named to offset her mangy appearance, Bella is full of life, energy, and affection, yet she has a lot to recover from beyond her demodectic mange. Bella, as we just found out, has canine parvovirus, and Dr. Ramos is doing everything he can to save her. When a volunteer with us pointed her out to me at Los Machos, I thought she was nearly dead, laying on a piece of foam mattress near the beach...with 5 seconds of sweet talk, she was up shaking her butt and wanting love. Hang in there, Bella!

Annie and I: You remember this sweet sata face don't you!?! Well, we scooped her up...it was her turn, I guess. As I've mentioned before, Annie is an extremely docile, playful, and grateful little girl that is so easily going to assimilate into the housebroken life when given the chance.

Mouse and Liz: As we were driving out of the Los Machos Beach "rescue area," Liz saw one last rescue candidate trotting across the street. Small, adorable, and so easy to handle in every way, Mouse just happened to be at the right place at the right time.

Please, let me know if any of these darlings strikes a chord with you. Each one of these dogs pulled really hard on our heart strings, and we just couldn't leave the beach without them. In time, these saved satos will be shipped most likely to St. Hubert's and put up for adoption.

Currently, the Los Machos Beach Project has exhausted all its funds to pay for past and current rescues including Blondie, who is still undergoing chemotherapy. Dr. Ramos just spayed her and noticed another tumor in her general reproductive area. He decided to take a biopsy of her tumor to answer more questions about her condition. We have only received enough donations to cover a bit of her already approaching $1000 vet bill. Obviously, we never know entirely what we are getting ourselves into when we pick up any stray animal, but figure each one deserves a shot. And if I learned anything from my experience with Dakota, regardless of how grim the circumstances may seem, these abandoned and abused animals are tough cookies.

In sum, we are in a bit of bind: SPONSORS WANTED!!!!

On another note, I have to admit that I was relieved during my time in California with respect to animal welfare. Seeing Los Machos Beach last week for the first time in a month "got me down," to say the least. Last Wednesday, I came home exhausted and overwhelmed, once again, and simply felt that my efforts were scratching the surface of this vast issue we are faced with here in Puerto Rico. We need to do more...don't worry, we're working on it. Still, five more dogs will get to experience life the way a dog should: with an endless supply of human love and dog biscuits.

Well, keep your thoughts on Bella, who is battling through canine parvovirus as we speak. She's a special little girl. I know, I know...they all are.

Glad to be back,
Shanti

p.s. This picture was just sent to me...

...as a "Happy Foster Mother's Day" card from Dakota. Thanks for remembering me, Kota!

ADLA-style rescue mission!!!

2008-05-08T12:07:00.003-04:00

I am about 10 minutes away from leaving my apartment to go to South Carolina for 5 days, but wanted to give you all a brief summary of yesterday's events.

Liz and I rescued 5 Los Machos satos yesterday on our whirlwind tour of both Dead Dog Beach in Yabucoa and Los Machos Beach in Ceiba. Of those I've blogged before, Annie ("Orphan Annie") is now safely residing at Dr. Ramos until she's cleared to fly stateside, most likely to St. Hubert's.

The other four were new additions to the Los Machos clan, including a pregnant momma named Cha-Cha, Nugget (as in "Golden Nugget"), Mouse (he just looks like one) and Bella (a name given to offset the mange, scabs and bites that cover this sweet little soul's body). Unfortunately, my camera was low on battery, but Liz saved the day with her photography skills.

These fortunate babies need sponsors!!! I will be sure to share photos and a more detailed story soon!

Back on a plane, again!
Shanti

An update on Blondie, again

2008-05-04T21:14:00.002-04:00

Karla, Blondie's rescuer, spoke to Dr. Ramos recently and found out our yellow lab mix was no longer bleeding and that her tumors were almost gone. Therefore, Dr. Ramos' assumptions about her polyps were right on, and things are looking up for this sweet, lovable dog. Dr. Ramos and his crew were going to do one more treatment (3-day duration). She should be in the clear after that. In other good news, there is a potential adopter that Karla's working on...keep your fingers crossed.

I have not received the total damage thus far on Blondie's medical expenses thus far, but considering the extensive medical attention she has received, I can only imagine how much we will need to raise. Any help with Blondie's bills would be so greatly appreciated.

Well, back to Puerto Rico for a few days as of tomorrow, then off on a mini-trip to South Carolina, and then I will be back in action, rescue-style as of May 14. Boy, have I missed my lil' Los Machos satos.

Thanks to all of you for being patient and still reading this blog, even though I've been less attentive than usual. Your support keeps this project going strong!

Shanti

Mika at STAR in Philadelphia; Alfie ADOPTED!!!

2008-04-23T10:28:00.009-04:00

Greetings from California! Sorry it’s been awhile, but I’ll try to make up for it by sharing fantastic news! Though I missed out on the nitty-gritty details, Ginny from Manos por Patas reached out to Mika (100-lb. Neapolitan Mastiff) and set her up with STAR in Philadelphia. This particular rescue has dealt with animals like Mika and was more than willing to work with and on her issues with aggression and protectiveness. Word is that Mika is doing fantastic and may even have a forever home lined up!

I also received an email from Alfie’s forever family in New Jersey. He has been renamed Dexter, which I think is perfect, and is fattening up beautifully.

Here is an excerpt from the email:

Dear Shanti,

We have adopted "Alfie" from the St. Hubert's Dog Shelter, in Madison, NJ. He had your letter with him in his file...

Alfie, now "Dexter," in his momma's lap

We live in the Town of Whippany, New Jersey, USA. We have, as you can see in the picture, a very large fenced in yard. "Alfie" loves to run around and play with our four-year-old Mini Pin. They have not established yet who is in charge. I think "Alfie" will be though. He has put on some weight since we got him and if he could talk he would probably say "Thank You, the beautiful people of "Amigos de Los Animales," for saving my life and sending me to the States. Both he and our family are lucky we found each other.

Thank You,
Barbara & Jim

Now that just gives me all kinds of warm and fuzzies inside.

In other news, I have received some letters (read to me by my husband, Colin, who is holding down the fort in Puerto Rico) recently regarding the disgust toward how animals are treated and the continued neglect of animal welfare in Puerto Rico. First of all, thank you for your concern for the animals of Los Machos Beach as well as the much needed and appreciated donations that keep this project going. If you feel so inclined, I urge you to express your opinions to Puerto Rico Tourism Company. Given that tourism is considered by many to be the primary fuel to ameliorate Puerto Rico’s no-end-in-sight, self-inflicted economic recession, letters stating that potential visitors will not step foot on the so-called “enchanted” island due to its blatant animal welfare issues are necessary.

And the address:
Terestella Gonzalez Denton
Executive Director
Compañía de Turismo de Puerto Rico
PO Box 4435
San Juan, PR 00902-4435
tgonzalez@prtourism.com

And then there is always the mayor of Ceiba, that is well aware of the issues in his city with respect to the inhumane treatment and overwhelming presence of stray animals, but has yet to do anything about the need for low-cost spay/neuter clinics, local outreach and education and law enforcement for animal abuse and abandonment. Let's tell him what we think, shall we?

Hon. Gilberto Lex Camacho
Municipio de Ceiba
P.O. Box 224
Ceiba, P.R. 00735-0224

It may not seem like a letter would do much, but for those of you who are not able to help us at the scene of the crime and have asked if there is more you can do, here are a couple of ideas. You may have more of an effect than you think from miles away.

Also, for those of you who knew of the possibility of Colin and I moving from Puerto Rico this summer, I am happy (for the most part) to say that we will not be relocated: The Santulli Los Machos Beach Project rescue missions will continue!

Getting homesick,
Shanti

Misdiagnosed Blondie

2008-04-12T19:37:00.003-04:00

Karla, the angel that rescued Blondie from the streets of Condado, called me today to give me an update. As I mentioned last post, Blondie was still bleeding. Dr. Ramos became concerned that something else was going on, so he decided to do a vaginal exam on her. Turns out, his initial diagnosis was wrong; Blondie was not rat poisoned. Instead, Dr. Ramos found several garbanzo-bean-sized polyps (tumors) in her vagina. Considering where they are inside her, a biopsy would be tricky. In his medical opinion, he does not think they are carcinogenic, but instead viral (i.e. HPV), and will therefore treat her accordingly with something similar to chemotherapy that will chemically remove the growths, minus the hair loss, lethargy and other associated side effects. At worst, Blondie may experience some nausea and diarrhea, but if the treatment is successful, she will be free and clear within 7 days. If she is not, Blondie may indeed have carcinogenic tumors, and we will have to make some more difficult decisions.

So let's be hopeful. And on that note, here's our Dakota, still livin' the life in Massachusetts and hogging the couch, or car seat in this case.

Renita and Dakota, getting along pretty well it would seem...though it looks like Dakota's getting the better end of the deal in this shot.

News on Blondie

2008-04-10T18:58:00.004-04:00

A quick update on Blondie (thank you everyone for your concern for this darling girl):

She is still not 100% yet. Dr. Ramos has her on antibiotics at this point and decided she did not necessarily need a blood transfusion, but she is still bleeding (which is not the best sign). However, Dr. Ramos and his crew of rockstars seem to think she'll pull through. As soon as we know if she is completely out of the woods, I'll post the good news!!!

California is kicking my butt!
Shanti

More on Riley's pups, compliments of Liz

2008-04-06T23:12:00.002-04:00

Call me lazy, but I'm not sure I could explain what happened to Riley's puppies better than Liz has anyway. If you would like more details on Riley's brood's saga, check out this post on Elizabeth Kracht's, ADLA rockstar/leader/diva, blog.

Canine Herpes Virus & Riley's Pupsicles R.I.P.

The truth is, I am feeling extremely lazy right now: more like exhausted. I arrived in Los Angeles yesterday afternoon, said a quick hello to dearly missed friends and am now in Barstow, a desert town two hours northeast of LA. Tomorrow begins my swan dive back into field biology, my professional life before Puerto Rico and ADLA. My coworkers have warned me to expect 60-hour work weeks, and possible weekend work as well. So for my regular Los Machos Satos' Blog readers, while I will not slack on keeping you abreast of pertinent sato news, I apologize in advance if my posts are written with eyes half open over the next month.

Well, wish me luck...hopefully I didn't forget how to be a biologist.

Another rescue, this time from my neighborhood

2008-04-04T13:22:00.007-04:00

I received a phone call from a dear friend, Karla, this morning about a dog roaming outside her apartment complex in Condado (a neighborhood in San Juan). Before I had a chance to call her back, Karla had already brought in this sweet, yellow lab mix into Dr. Ramos' to have her checked out. Karla's main concern is that she was bleeding from some orifice.

Blondie, rescued this morning and bleeding from her back end (yes, that's blood on the floor), most likely ingested rat poison, a toxin commonly used to eradicate stray animals in Puerto Rico.

Upon initial examination, Dr. Ramos was hopeful that she was simply going through menstruation, though there were far worse possibilities. Based on a blood test, Dr. Ramos has concluded that dear Blondie, as Karla named her, most likely ingested rat poison somewhat recently. Rat poison is often used in Puerto Rico to kill stray animals, however I suppose we can't be sure how she came upon this type of toxin. Regardless, I'm irate about this and am assuming the worst, that someone intended to poison the roaming dog.

From stories I have heard from my neighbors in Condado, it wouldn't be the first time. It would seem the reason there is such a small population, to no population, of strays in the tourist trap that is Condado is because of tight "animal control"...translation: dogs are regularly picked up and brought to a "shelter" or are poisoned and disposed of. The worst part is that these Condado strays belonged to someone at some point. For example, four or five months ago Colin and I befriended a sato roaming right outside of our apartment, too scared to be picked up or pet for too long. Turns out a woman who lives two buildings east of us thought "Linda" (pronounced leen-dah, meaning "cutie" in Spanish), as we all called her, was more work that she was willing to deal with and decided that putting her on Condado Beach would be the right thing to do. Fortunately, those of the dog community of Condado put our heads together, socialized her a bit, and found her a great home.

Blondie, here safe and in Dr. Ramos' care, desperately needs a sponsor!

Colin and I just got back from Dr. Ramos', where we got to meet Blondie. She's an absolute angel. Considering what she is internally going through right now, she greeted me with tail wags, a couple licks on the hand, and those darling eyes of love.

Karla told me she had seen Blondie about two weeks ago as well, but figured she was just off leash with someone since she had a collar on. Well, thanks to Karla, Blondie will hopefully pull through her terrible ordeal. Because Blondie is already showing symptoms of being poisoned, it is too late to try to remove the poison from her by inducing vomiting or other less complicated methods. Dr. Ramos will try some sort of antidote, though a blood transfusion may necessary...whatever it takes.

We are hoping to find a sponsor and/or adopter for this special dog. Please contact losmachossatos@gmail.com or simply donate through the "Donate" buttons on this blog if you would like to contribute towards Blondie's recovery.

And a quick peek at our darling Chalupa, still a little sick, at Dr. Ramos' today.

We're gonna get you outta there, girl, I promise!!!!

And then there were none

2008-04-03T20:55:00.007-04:00

The last two of Riley's brood were put down today, as recommended by the vet in Cabo Rojo. He says, without certainty, that Riley's puppies' downfall may have been due to canine herpesvirus. We may do a tox screen to find out for sure, though the results are not guaranteed. I am going into Dr. Ramos' tomorrow, and I will ask if we can do tests on Riley, given that the pups got whatever they had from her most likely.

Vaya con Dios, little ones.

2 puppies remain

2008-04-03T10:06:00.005-04:00

I've sat here for a bit, trying to figure out what the best title for this post would be. There's just no easy way to say it. As of now, only 2 of Riley's seven pups are still alive. Something has swept over the litter. We'll find out more soon, but for now all I know is that the vet in Cabo Rojo is suggesting putting the other two pups down as well. It would be hard and exhausting to think of all the reasons why Riley's brood is failing to survive unless we have the vet do a toxicology screen on one of the 2-week-old pups. So we are planning on doing just that. We're waiting to get more information before making the decision to put the two fighters to sleep, and I'll keep you posted. After Nena died days ago, I really thought the rest of the puppies would be alright...or at least I hoped.

With no easy way to change the subject, the shipment was successful yesterday...well, depending on who you talk to. Chalupa might argue since she was not cleared to fly again. Poor little girl, she still has symptoms of influenza or something like that. I think she's coming down with the "get me out of this cage" virus, and I'm going to do everything I can to help her. I'm looking for a foster home for her, but even more, trying to arrange a shipment for her and Riley for Friday or Saturday of next week to St. Hubert's. Jamie Sherr, our trusted volunteer in New Jersey, has offered to pick these two Los Machos Satas from Newark, keep them over night for one night, and take them to St. Hubert's the next day. Well, hopefully I can take Jamie up on her fantastic offer! On the Puerto Rican side, my main squeeze, Colin, will do whatever it takes while I'm gone to get Chalupa and Riley on their way. I am a lucky girl.

The only Los Machos sato to leave yesterday was Gage, who was as sweet as can be through the entire process. He would go in and out of the kennel very willingly, and whenever he was inside his kennel, peacefully slept or just rested waiting to do whatever we asked him to do next. I really hope to hear from his future adopter...he's a special boy.

More soon,
Shanti

Los Machos visit, shipment postponed, and much more

2008-04-01T12:19:00.029-04:00

Talk about a week! Let's start with last Monday and go from there.

Monday: Colin and I drove about 4 blocks from our apartment to pick up Jamie Sherr, a rockstar volunteer down for the week to see some satos and vacation a bit and also to serve as our flyer for 16 dogs, along with her friend Brad at their hotel in Ocean Park. And off we went to Los Machos Beach in Ceiba to show them why this project exists, how sweet these animals can be, and how much these animals love hot dogs. We arrived at Los Machos around 8:15 am.

Our first sato sighting was sweet orphan Annie:

SEEKING SPONSOR/ADOPTER: Annie, a sweet 25-lb. sata with a darling personality

What surprised me is that upon arriving near the Avis parking lot, I didn't see the usual suspects. Then, across the street, I saw a familiar tail wag: It was Homer. Homer, Toby, and Lily (a beautiful black lab I once saw roaming the streets, but never saw her again) were all anxiously waiting for hot dogs and love behind a fence to a small apartment complex. Lily supposedly lives there, but Homer and Toby slip through a hole in the fence at night to sleep. They looked so happy, especially Homer who once took 10 minutes or so to warm up to me. He is coming out of his shell beautifully.

SEEKING SPONSOR/ADOPTER: Homer, once a shy and reserved black lab mix, is learning to trust and finally beginning to grow back some fur!

SEEKING SPONSOR/ADOPTER: Toby, a little hound with a lot of love

After spending some time with Toby, Annie, Homer, and couple others, we cruised around to some of the other spots. Close to the beach near the marina, a posse of puppies and dogs greeted us...oh, and there was a new addition to the canine family...

A tiny little kitty found it's way into the Los Machos Sato clan.

This bold lil' thing was not at all shy about rolling around in the dirt with the dogs.

There were so many new puppies. A regular momma who desperately needs to be caught and spayed (I call her Lola) showed off her new litter.

Lola says, "I am so over this puppy business."

After spending time with as many Los Machos satos as we could, we shot over to Maria's to pick up Alfie, gave him a bath, and drove back towards Ocean Park to pick up Riley. Over the weekend, Riley's health went down the drain: She was barely eating, had diarrhea of all sorts of colors, and lacked her normal spark. After picking up Riley, we headed to Dr. Ramos' to get Alfie ready to for the St. Hubert's flight on March 28 and to see what was buggin' our little Riley momma.

The results: Alfie was deemed "good to go," and Riley tested negative for worms and other parasites. The only answer Dr. Ramos came up with for Riley was that the puppies were "sucking the life out of her." What did this mean? Liz and Efren had a lot of work cut out for them. All seven puppies had to be bottle-fed every 4 hours until they could be returned to their mom. Days later, Dr. Ramos decided that Riley, for health reasons, should not be reunited with her pups at any time. The hunt for a more permanent foster home for Riley's pups began.

More pictures of the satos seen on Monday will be scattered throughout this post. Enjoy!

Tuesday: Jamie and Brad went back out to Los Machos, hot dogs in hand, to see the satos they fell in love with the day before. Unfortunately, all the puppies they had seen the day before were either hiding out in the shade or had been taken "somewhere." Jamie and Brad were able to talk to someone out there, Angel, who was feeding the satos. From my understanding, someone came and picked up about 8 dogs/puppies; we don't know who took the dogs, only that Angel, who does care for these animals, seemed not to be worried. Jamie and Brad sort of got the impression that these dogs were going to a shelter of sorts, though they got the impression that the dogs were going somewhere safe, whether or not we are just wishful thinking. If most of the dogs that were taken were puppies, there is a good chance that someone came with the intention of finding them homes or selling them since puppies are so easy to place, but that would be extremely optimistic.

Puppy madness!!!

I'm still working on getting more details. We did find out recently, however, that there are 3 different men, Victor, Angel, and another, that regularly feed the dogs and give them lots of love...looks like we have even more wonderful people to help us after all. If we are just finding out about these helping hands now, who have supposedly been taking care of these dogs for years now, it could be just as possible that someone/some people are actually rescuing animals at Los Machos as well, right? However, even though I have only been a part of this rescue world for a few months now, I unfortunately believe the dogs and puppies taken were taken with less innocent intentions; I've become slightly tainted.

SEEKING SPONSOR/ADOPTER: Gizmo, just being awesome Gizmo, wouldn't leave us alone during our visit.

Wednesday: A friend of mine Anne, visiting from Chicago, and I went snorkeling today: a necessary day-long vacation. On the way back home, I relieved Liz and Efren of their bottle-feeding duties since they had already been amazing enough. One of the little pups was constantly crying and seemingly not doing well. I named her "Nena." I held onto her as often as I could.

Thursday: Nena's crying continued. I decided to bring them to Dr. Ramos' to see if they could hang on to them for a couple of days and figure out what was wrong. As they often do, they helped me out. In other news, Chalupa had started showing signs of sickness, with some nasal discharge and general lethargy, and was taken off the list of dogs to be shipped to St. Hubert's on March 28. Yes, I was pretty upset about it. Chalupa has lived at Dr. Ramos for more than a month...poor girl. Soon enough.

SEEKING SPONSOR/ADOPTER: China (pronounced chee-nah), is not nearly as scared of people as she used to be. Head rubs are her favorite.

Thursday night, a group of us from Amigos de los Animales joined our fabulous visiting volunteers, Jamie and Brad (I am kicking myself for not taking a picture of these two die-hard animal lovers) as well as John Bates (featured on our website here), for dinner at Bamboobei in Pinones. Good times, good times.

Friday: Oh, the shipment. Everything seemed to be going fine, until we went up to the counter to check-in. We were an hour late to check in the dogs. Somewhere along the way of arranging this shipment, we failed to realize that the departure time for the one-way flight to Newark had changed from 6:50 to 5:50 p.m. due to the time change on the east coast. Our dogs did not fly with Jamie as the flyer, and despite all her efforts to make it work, we could not reverse our mistake. Jamie still enthusiastically took Alfie, the little Chihuahua mix from Los Machos, as a carry on.

Saturday: Liz and Efren decided to rock my world once again by offering/deciding to bring Riley's seven pups to their new foster home in Cabo Rojo (3 hours from San Juan). Gina Sein, another rescuer and foster mom, arranged for a neighbor of hers who has experience with puppies to foster Riley's brood. The drop-off mission was successful... *sigh* (of relief). The puppies were safe and in a stable home before my approaching departure to California.

SEEKING SPONSOR/ADOPTER: Benji, a newly abandoned dog that has supposedly been picked up and dropped off 3 different times by the same person. He is extremely social and so darn cute.

Jamie called me in the a.m. to let me know that Alfie was an angel during the flight and during the night at Jamie's abode and made it safely to St. Hubert's. Jamie, you are my personal hero...thank you!

Monday: Gina called Liz to let her know that Nena did not make it. The poor little pups had to be weakened by being removed for their mom, being moved around so much, and who knows what else. It's terribly sad, but all we can hope for is that the rest pull through.

Thought I would add a picture Patty sent me of Dakota and her always-empty food bowl. From what I've heard, Kota eats whatever food is in her own bowl and whatever food is in Patty's other dog Renita's bowl. Patty has fondly referred to her as "piggy."

Another flyer, Jennifer Cece, is flying out here on Tuesday (4/1), staying the night at Adri's, and will head back to Newark on Wednesday (4/2), taking off two days of work so that 16 satos can get to St. Hubert's. These acts of selflessness from sweet souls such as Jennifer and Jamie deem me speechless. We won't mess this one up, I promise.

Today: Riley's pups' have been latched on to another lactating mother. Only one of the pups seem to be having some issues, but is receiving special attention and alone time with the newly introduced momma. Let's keep our fingers crossed for the remaining six of Riley's pups!!!

In other good news, looks like Chalupa's doing much better and is going on tomorrow's flight. I'll be sure to let you know how tomorrow's shipment goes!

And no, I have not yet packed for my month-long trip to Southern California. Hopefully I'll get around to it before I leave on Saturday.

And finally, check out Rocco, in the arms of one his new family members...makes me tear up just a little bit!!! He's just so gosh darn cute!

Lookin' good, sweet boy!

DAKOTA UPDATE

2008-03-24T16:59:00.008-04:00

Patty, Dakota's new mom, entitled this emailed photo "Shanti's fault." Why? Because I convinced my husband that Dakota should be allowed to do anything she wanted while staying with us, including hogging the couch. Sorry, Patty!

Lovin' the sun, as cute as ever

Thanks for the photos, Patty!!!!

As for today's Los Machos and vet visit, I have a bunch of new photos that I need to upload in the next couple of days, and Riley and Alfie are at Dr. Ramos'. I do not have a final verdict for both of their conditions yet, but will post the news as soon as we find out. Riley tested negative for all parasites, and Dr. Ramos seems to think her puppies are "sucking the life out of her," that such a small dog can be so drained by having seven pups. She will be at Dr. Ramos' until she is eating regularly again; meanwhile, the puppies will have to be fed formula.

If you haven't seen other recently taken photos, as well as the soon-to-come photos from today, of the Los Machos satos, check 'em out:
Los Machos Satos Flickr Page

2008-03-23T17:04:00.005-04:00

Well, Patty, Dakota's new mommy!, has been kind enough to give me the play by play since Dakota's arrival in Boston last night. It sounds like she is making herself comfortable in her loving forever home. I will be sure to post pictures as soon as I get them. Yay, Kota!

On the subject of the other recently rescued, Gage, Chalupa and Alfie are slated to go to St. Hubert's this Friday. For all of you who have donated recently to the Los Machos Beach Project, thank you so much!!! Unfortunately, we do not have enough to cover all of the vetting expenses and shipping costs for these three dogs...the endless dilemma. Alfie, on top of it all, may have some sort of tooth infection as well which will require veterinary attention ASAP.

Alfie

I am going to pick up Alfie tomorrow from his foster home in Ceiba and take him to the vet again. We'll see how bad his condition is, though hopefully it won't keep him from flying on March 28. Riley, the recent mother of seven puplets, will also be visiting the vet tomorrow because she is showing signs of some sort of parasite. Hopefully it isn't something too bad. Anyway, we're counting pennies over here, and hoping others may be willing to do the same.

On a lighter note:
If you've ever had a cat, watch this for a good laugh!

More news tomorrow after a visit to Los Machos and Dr. Ramos!
Shanti

Hasta luego, Dakota!

2008-03-22T19:12:00.005-04:00

Oh my goodness, I knew this day would come, but didn't realize how much of a baby I was going to be about it. That's right, Dakota left today for her new home in Oxford, MA. It was a sad fare-thee-well, but obviously coated with extreme elation that our baby doll Dakota was off to officially start her life, leaving all the bad behind. I dropped her off alone, therefore there is no proof (phew!) of my theatrics/tear session at the American Airlines cargo terminal. I did manage, however, to get some shots of Dakota during my day with her before I sent her on her way.

And so here they are...pictures of Kota. It's important to notice how she is no longer a walking skeleton:

All smiles on this girl now!

She's just so happy.

At this angle, she almost looks fat.

And she talks sometimes now, too!

The highlight of her day: a bath (said with much sarcasm)

My last pep talk and petting session with sweet Dakota. It'll be hard not to miss this face.

Off she goes to Boston!

Kota says, "Thanks for all your help to make me feel better. It worked!!!"

I would like to personally extend my thanks to all of you for giving this dog a second (or third, depending on who you talk to) chance at a wonderful life. This (Dakota's rescue, fundraising and rehab) has been an amazing experience for me in these first several months I've been rescuing animals and truly reboots my faith in what people are willing to do to help those who can't ask for it...los animales.

Thanks you all, again, so much,
Shanti

Good work, Riley!

2008-03-16T21:14:00.011-04:00

I went to visit Liz's foster land earlier today and visited with our Los Machos sata, Riley, who just gave birth to seven puppies. And, thanks to Liz, we have pictures with Riley and her day-old pups...so sweet!!! Enjoy....

One last "before" shot of pregnant Riley

(All photos here taken by Liz Kracht of ADLA; Thanks, Liz!!!)

Congrats, Riley! You make a beautiful (and, might I add, nurturing and loving) mommy.

Reaching out to a sata in need

2008-03-16T13:11:00.017-04:00

I received this email late last night from Keishya, another dedicated rescuer here in Puerto Rico. Emails about a dog or cat with this problem and that situation flood my inbox daily, and I help when I can. But for whatever reason, this particular email from Keishya made me especially concerned.

An excerpt from Keishya's email:

Hello All,

Well, you all know how this is around here... Just minding our own business, walking our own adopted satos together in the late morning.

At the end of the trail right on the beach was this sato Girl and her picture says it all.

She is 47 pounds and about 3-3 1/2 years old. She was definitely a dump and not feral. When we first saw her laying on the ground down at the beach, it was hard to see if the huge lump in her lower abdomen was a stillbirth or an ulcerated tumor. It is a tumor for sure, and it is bleeding, etc. Not a pretty sight by any means, but this Girl is a really sweet one. I coaxed her back to my home and fed her and then went to put a collar on her. She just let me and when I put a leash on her to get into my car, she was docile and submissive. Into the car she went with barely any persuasion...argh...someone dumped this one. We went to Dr. Reyes and he evaluated her. Amazingly, she is negative for all...except the huge tumor.

I am hoping some of you can pass this plea along...and I will be sending more details tomorrow...at the moment I am completely pooped...but just look at her.

So anyway, let me know if you or anyone you may know can help out with this case and or any adoption options. Her temperament upon initial time spent is really good. Not shy or scared.

Thanks for listening and any reply welcome.

Keishya

four paws at a time

Please email Keishya at tshg@coqui.net to find out how you can help this heart-breaking rescue.

Such a little dog...such a big belly

2008-03-13T14:32:00.021-04:00

Last night I had the pleasure of hanging out at Liz's to work on some business for ADLA. While there, I got to see Riley, who Liz and Efren (Liz's boyfriend) have been fostering, and her HUGE tummy. When the pups will pop out, we can't be sure, though there have been some false alarms. Any day now, that's for sure.

Riley mama, doing just about all she can do right now, laying on Liz and Efren's apartment floor.

She's still such a sweetheart these days, even considering how uncomfortable she must be feeling. As Liz tells me, Riley is completely house-trained already, loves walks around the neighborhood and on the beach, and has been extremely easy to foster in general. What a good girl!

If you haven't read it already, an article about the famous "Puerto Rico Pet Massacre" where 80 animals were seized from Barceloneta housing projects and subsequently thrown off a bridge to their deaths on the same day in October came out in the New York Times this March 9. It's a great follow-up to the tragic event and highlights important aspects of the problems this island has faced and still faces in terms of animal welfare.

Scrutiny for Puerto Rico Over Animal Treatment

Equally as important to check out is the video also released by The New York Times featuring Nelson Rivera, shelter manager at the Guaynabo Humane Society. Nelson makes some excellent points, and most importantly stresses the necessity to sterilize our animals. We hear ya, Nelson.

In Puerto Rico, Dogs Without a Home

Happy Homes: Los Machos Satos Keeping in Touch

2008-03-10T16:05:00.007-04:00

Rocco's new mom just sent me the following earlier today:

Hi Shanti,

Just wanted to send you a quick note about Rocco. He is fantastic. We absolutely LOVE him!!! By Sunday, it felt as if he had been with us forever. He is fitting right in. He has taken to my husband especially. Follows him everywhere!! It's so cute. I am surprised how easy it was to introduce him to my other animals. I really thought for sure there would be some issues there, but so far, even the cats tolerate him!

When I got him from the airport, he looked a little scared, but as soon as I let him out of the carrier, he was all lovey and laid in my arms the whole ride home. You weren't kidding about the car. I have never seen a dog love to be in the car as much as him. It's almost as if he gets hypnotized.

Anyway, thanks again for all you have done for him. I think he is loving his new life!! I have been taking lots of pictures. I will be sending you some soon!!

Take Care,
Christine

And from Bass' new family (written on Feb. 25, 2008):

Hello Shanti,

Last week my family and I adopted Buddy (a.k.a. Bass) from St. Hubert's Animal Shelter in Madison, NJ. We changed his name, and he seems to respond to it already! He is WONDERFUL!!! He is housebroken, walks well on a leash, knows commands like sit and wait. He is gentle and very loving. He loves to curl up on the floor with us. We love him. He plays with us or alone with his toys. He has been good alone in the house (we have only left him for no more than 3 hours).

Buddy is the perfect addition to our family.

Thank you for rescuing him.

Mary

Thanks for updating us, Christine and Mary. Sounds like these two former Los Machos satos are livin' the life!

Shanti

Gage and Riley rescued, but...

2008-03-05T11:52:00.012-04:00

I'll start with the beginning of my day yesterday, when I went to Dr. Ramos' to pick up Dakota to have her sutures removed at the surgeon's. My goodness, she is a completely different dog now (or at least like the Dakota I first met at Los Machos)...she was jumping around, dancing, yelping for food (she's gained 1.5 pounds and never wants to stop eating now), giving me kisses and just all around chipper. At the surgeon's office, she was basically doing running laps around the lobby, charging/sliding under my legs, turning around, and doing it all over again.

A playful Dakota, with no worries in the world

That's right folks, Dakota is back in action. As for when she gets to go to her NEW HOME!!! in Massachusetts, both doctors would like to see results for one last blood test around March 19. If everything looks good, Dakota will be shipped to her forever home around the last week of March. Considering all that Dakota has been through, she came out the other end better than ever. I brought her back to Dr. Ramos' after her sutures were removed and gave her a bunch of kisses on behalf of all of her fans.

Dakota in my car, lickin' her chops saying, "I'm ready to eat all the food you tried to give me a month ago now, so where is it?"

After dropping off Dakota, I went out to Ceiba to pick up Riley and Gage. Maria, a Ceiba local, has been fostering Riley for about two and a half weeks and eventually figured out that Riley was pregnant. So my first stop was Maria's house to check on Riley. Maria was very nervous about Riley giving birth in her house, so I took her with me. Gage stayed at Melodie's house Monday night so I wouldn't have trouble finding him at Los Machos in the middle of the day on Tuesday. The ride back to San Juan was easy with these two satos, Riley laying quietly in a kennel while Gage sat patiently behind my left shoulder, head on the back of my seat, throughout pretty much the entire one-hour drive.

Couldn't really get a good picture of Gage in my car; every time I tried taking a picture, he would start licking the camera. I ended up with 10 pictures of a pink blob. This is him behind me while I was driving, occasionally licking my hair.

And the verdict at Dr. Ramos'...Gage is heartworm positive, but is in great shape considering. He will still be a perfect dog for St. Hubert's, but we're trying to figure out if he will go on the shipment at the end of this month or not (treatment pending). Riley, oh, Riley. It looks like our little, one-year-old pooch is going to give birth within a week or so.

Riley, pre-pregnancy, ignoring the food being thrown around her just to get some love from Colin.

I wish I had her situation figured out by now, but I don't. As of now, I am looking into the possibility of sending her to St. Hubert's (waiting to talk to Jackie about what she thinks) before she has her puppies, though that might not be the best thing for her; I need more information first. At the same time, we're also trying to find a perfect foster-care situation where she can both have her pups and stay for about 8 weeks, which is proving to be very difficult. Regardless, she will be cared for, as will her pups.

ADLA has also decided to go ahead and prep another little Los Machos sato, Alfie (who is also being fostered by Maria), for the trip on March 28. I will be sure to post a list of the dogs rescued recently who will be going to St. Hubert's at the end of the month; right now, I'm still unsure considering all the of the health obstacles we've run into.

Alfie, a sweet Chihuahua mix, in foster care and hopefully going to St. Hubert's on March 28

I realized last night that I have yet to explain Mika's situation. If you don't remember Mika, shame on you. Just kidding...she's that big, goofy Napoleon Mastiff that we were raising money for awhile back. Remember?...Her adopter didn't have the funds to ship her to New York, so we raised the money. Well, as it turned out, the adopter backed out due to a new insurance policy prohibiting her from having any "aggressive breeds," unfortunately including Napoleon Mastiffs I guess, on her property. So Mika is still at Melodie's, and we are doing what we can to find her a forever home...again. I'm sorry I didn't post this sooner; I think I was in denial of the whole situation.

Dakota (yes, our million-dollar dog still has unpaid vet expenses), Gage, Riley and Chalupa are in desperate need of donations, considering their respective special conditions (which often translates to "more expensive conditions"), so please contribute if you can!

I should find out more info about Riley today, so stay tuned...

Shanti

p.s. In later news, Riley will be staying here to have her pups. So we will find her a great foster home for approximately 2 months (which hasn't been found yet), at which point we can send her and her little angels to St. Hubert's or elsewhere.

Plans for Tuesday

2008-02-29T17:41:00.004-04:00

So it's been a little while, but we've been keeping busy...

A quick update for now, I will be going out to Los Machos this coming Tuesday to pick up the following sweethearts (almost definitely these two):

This is Gage, a beautiful black lab mix that constantly greets us with love...as you can see, he likes tummy rubs.

And our dear lil' Riley, a long-time resident of Los Machos

Though we currently do not have the funding to rescue more dogs, nor do we have the funding to pay off the remaining balance of Dakota and Chalupa's vet fees, I've decided that I'm not letting a shipment at the end of March to St. Hubert's pass us by considering there are 100% adoptable dogs waiting to be rescued, currently scraping by in Ceiba. With the support of our wonderful donors, I am confident that we will eventually break even. Also, I found out from a Ceiba local who has been holding onto Riley that she is pregnant as of recently...so scooping her up sooner than later is the best thing for all involved I think.

As for Dakota, Dr. Ramos told me Friday that she is fantastic and eating everything they give her. Chalupa has had her initial treatment for heartworm and is living in the same run as Rocco, who will be shipped to his new home in New Jersey on March 7 (weather pending).

I promise to have my camera fully charged and, most importantly, with me when I pick up Gage and Riley and visit Dakota, Chalupa and Rocco at Dr. Ramos' on my Tuesday Los Machos/vet rounds.

A new goal for the end of March

2008-02-23T13:30:00.006-04:00

This morning, I picked up Dakota from the Veterinary Specialty Hospital and took her back to Dr. Ramos' where she will stay at least until her sutures are removed on March 3. I'm sorry to say I forgot my digital camera and had only a spare disposable one in my car. I will eventually get the photos developed, though for now you will just have to imagine how much better Dakota's spirit was. She was elated to see me, as usual, though in general she seemed...just better. She even did a couple in-place dance moves/jumps and held her head higher. It was AWESOME to see her.

As for promised surgery details, there was one minor complication during the procedure. Dakota's liver was basically stuck through the hernia's orifice within the hernial sac (I admit that I could be explaining this inaccurately, but it's at least an approximation of what I gathered from the surgeon's explanation). Dr. Quinones had to make an incision in order to "retrieve" the liver in tact. Dakota is on special food and medicine to maintain healthy liver function, as well as antibiotics and pain killers. She still has some respiratory issues, some sneezing and mucous, but she's in good hands now and ready to eat. What a relief...right? The total cost of the surgical procedure totaled $1570.86. Including checks promised to me that I have not received yet, we have raised $1300 for Dakota...not bad at all. Dakota is so lucky to have those people who have already donated for her surgery and better life! However, after all is said and done, considering her prescription food, hospitalization/boarding costs, remaining balance for her surgery and subsequent check-ups, I am still hoping to raise at least $700 for her.

Chalupa's heartworm treatments have begun, and she most likely will have to be boarded or fostered for 6 to 8 weeks before we place her in a home. Rocco is great and may be neutered before being shipped to his new home in New Jersey.

So we have 3 happy dogs in good care, and I wish I was satisfied with that (not meaning to sound ungrateful). We have an upcoming shipment of dogs for St. Hubert's on March 28, and I think that on top of funds needed to pay for Dakota and Chalupa's medical expenses that we can also raise enough for two or three more satos to be rescued before the shipment date. The truth is I am nervous right now...on my last visit to Los Machos to rescue Chalupa and Rocco, I did not see the dogs I usually see. I have no answers as to why they weren't there or where else they would be, but it does make me anxious to expedite our rescue efforts at Los Machos. We have found a foster home for the three or so soon-to-be-rescued satos, but, not to sound like a broken record, we need sponsors.

Satos in need of sponsors/adopters - YouTube Video

Another issue that I have not mentioned yet is that I will be leaving Puerto Rico during the month of April for work. In my pre-Puerto Rico life, I worked as a Biologist for an environmental firm in San Diego (B.S. in Biology/Ecology from Loyola University Chicago and an M.S. in Environmental Biology from UCLA). While still technically employed by this firm, they have offered to fly me out to Southern California so that I may aid in a huge field project. Frankly, I miss my work and have had issues finding biology-related work in Puerto Rico. I love biology. So, I accepted the offer and am very much looking forward to getting dirty in the field again, conducting rare plant and animal surveys and seeing my fellow bio-nerds. I will be back, just keeping myself "tuned up" in my expertise. That being said, I have even more reason to want to rescue more dogs from Los Machos before I leave during April.

I will be visiting Los Machos next week to take more pictures and assess the situation out there. Stay tuned for more details...

Still catching up

2008-02-22T07:22:00.003-04:00

I apologize for not giving you details on Dakota's surgery as promised, as life continues to rush me around a bit lately. Alas, I must go to work now for the rest of the day. My stories of Dakota and Chalupa will have to wait until this weekend. Both, however, are being hospitalized, treated for their respective ailments and are doing very well. I will be picking up Dakota tomorrow from the surgeon and taking her to Dr. Ramos' for a couple of days before she can come to Colin and my apartment for foster care. Off to work...

Shanti

A new and improved Dakota awaits!

2008-02-20T22:17:00.002-04:00

That's right...Dakota's surgery was successful, and she may be ready to be picked up as soon as tomorrow. What a little rockstar, eh? It's been a long day, so forgive me for leaving out all the details for now and not portraying my "Dakota made it!" dance (that I've been doing all night) through words. Tomorrow, I promise. For all of you who contributed to this resilient dog, she's alive because of you...she will feel better now because of you. Understated, Dakota is lucky to have you.

Buenas noches,
Shanti

And one became two

2008-02-20T15:32:00.007-04:00

Heartworm, hookworm, whipworm positive, but still extremely adoptable, Chalupa needs a sponsor.

First of all, still no news on Dakota (I know, it's killing me, too). I called Dr. Quiñones earlier, and she had not yet been able to perform the surgery...the waiting game continues.

As for the "Rocco Rescue Mission" this morning, I went to Los Machos and at first he was nowhere to be found. Yes, there was a bit of panic in my heart. My friend (Astra, new ADLA volunteer) and I searched the usual sato-concentrated areas around Los Machos for close to an hour before he and his partner in crime, Chalupa, trotted over. And then I had a moment. I couldn't just take Rocco, scared that Chalupa might not do as well livin' the street life without her sidekick. And then they teamed up against me. Rocco and Chalupa simultaneously jumped into the back seat of my car, I called around to find out if there was room to board/foster her, figured out some details and that was that. Rocco and Chalupa went for a ride with us to San Juan.

Rocco and Chalupa are currently safe at Dr. Ramos'. They both received their initial shots. The bad news, however, is that Chalupa did end up having heartworm, as well as hookwork, whipworm and mange. Dr. Ramos is running blood tests and will find out how developed her heartworm case is...should be fine though. Dogs can definitely be treated for heartworm, though it's a bit costly. I am, obviously, looking for a sponsor for Chalupa. Please let me know if you are interested in helping her out. Luckily, Dr. Ramos is an angel and is willing to let me keep a tab.

Rocco will be heading to New Jersey, to his forever home, with a week or two. We'll keep you updated on Chalupa and Dakota's progress.

Shanti

The waiting game...Dakota in surgery

2008-02-19T12:40:00.005-04:00

Well, Colin and I dropped Dakota off for surgery this morning...she was giddy when she first saw us at Dr. Ramos', but wasn't too happy when she went straight to the surgeon's office, whining and pacing a bit...Can you blame her?

An anxious Dakota, "leeching" to my leg at all times

The surgeon said, due to the lack of staff today, she will get to Dakota's surgery today as long as the circumstances allow at her clinic. If not today, tomorrow. Keep your eyes peeled for a new post here...news is soon to come. We are still about $500 short of the full cost of Dakota's total vet bills, so if anyone still feels like pitching in for "Operation: Give Dakota Another Shot," contributions are still needed.

On another note, some great news has come in, though I was too occupied with Dakota's situation to mention it. We have a home for one of our darling Los Machos satos, Rocco. I am going to pick him up from Ceiba tomorrow morning, bring him to Dr. Ramos', get him his necessary shots, etc., board him for a couple of weeks and then off he goes to his new forever home. I promise you more details in the next couple of days...for now, here's Rocco with his remarkable ears.

Rocco will be rescued from Los Machos tomorrow and will soon be going to his new forever home!

Shanti

It's a beautiful Sunday...

2008-02-17T14:54:00.004-04:00

I just can't get enough of this sweet girl's head.

Amidst all the phone calls and emails regarding Dakota's situation, one specific conversation has saved the day...and Dakota.

That's right...Dakota WILL be going into surgery on Tuesday and, after her recovery, will be sent to St. Hubert's in New Jersey where she will be put up for adoption along with her fellow Los Machos satos, Cisco and Bass. Calling Jackie Fahey of St. Hubert's (let's just refer to her as St. Jackie from here on out) about an hour ago was simply a means to find out what another, though much more experienced, rescuer would think was best for Kota. Taking it that extra step further as she often seems to do, Jackie told me to "send her on up," after recommending to me that the surgery sounded like the right thing to do.

I have, over the last day and half, had a dozen conversations with vet techs (one being a best friend of mine in Chicago...Thanks, Kasia!) and vets I have known in the past about Dakota's prospective surgery and got mixed reviews, making my head spin with uncertainty. Now, with assurance that she will end up in a home that understands her special needs, the answer is crystal clear. Also, speaking to other animal rescuers was key...dogs have come out of far worse, as the stories go, as will Dakota. So, it's on...risky or not. She's about as worth it as they come.

Our work is not finished quite yet though, my friends. We still need half of the money for Dakota's surgery and hospitalization fees, totaling around $1000. For those of you who have helped so generously already, THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU. However, please continue to pass the story along and help this gorgeous creature get everything she needs.

Thank you for your support through this. Keep your fingers crossed and/or say your prayers that the surgery goes smoothly. Dakota's getting another chance...it's a great day! I visited her at the vet's office yesterday, and she nearly knocked over her kennel with her overly exaggerated tail wagging when she saw me. So I think it's safe to say her spirits are up...she's ready for this.

I am ready for a nap!
Shanti

p.s. Check out our new "Adopt a Los Machos Sato" YouTube Video, which I made last night in honor of Dakota.

Dakota's options: a risky surgery or euthanasia

2008-02-15T20:04:00.005-04:00

Again, our baby girl Dakota, only 2 or 3 years old and at a point where she could live or die...can you help?

This morning, Dakota and I went over to a surgical specialist to find out how bad her hernia is...it was a scary sight, that's for sure. Her hernia basically covers what you would normally see on the film of her chest: her heart, lungs, etc. This hernia has taken over...not to say it is necessarily too late to help her. Now I further understand why she wheezes, coughs and has diarrhea. Most likely, in the same incident that Dakota broke her ribs and hind leg (both healed, indicating the event occurred some time ago), the trauma caused the hernia to develop. The surgical specialist said she feels confident that the surgery would be successful, but can't be sure until she sees how badly her organs have been effected by the hernia. It is possible that when a hernia has been there long enough, organs may begin to adhere where they are not supposed to, making the surgery very risky and complicated. It is also possible that if the incident that caused the trauma happened when Dakota was a puppy, her organs may be underdeveloped now, diminishing her prolonged health. We don't know exactly how long she's had it...if only we knew, more answers would be available to us.

I'm sort of at a loss. Her surgery, hospitalization and necessary medicine, etc., will cost nearly $2000. I WANT to raise this money...she truly is an exceptional animal. However, I need others to want to save this dog's life. Even more, if anyone is interested in adopting her after she recovers, I would without a doubt do everything medically possible to fix her, with or without the donations. Please email losmachossatos@gmail.com and let us know if you would be willing to donate toward this promising, life-saving surgery for Dakota, or if you would consider adopting her...I would even love comments/opinions about this situation.

I do realize that $2000 could potentially save 6 or 7 other satos, but I see it differently. The money we could raise to help Dakota wouldn't exist in our funding if it weren't for her specific, urgent case of life or death and our wanting her to eventually have life that our personal dogs have. If I can verify over the weekend that Dakota's chances of a great life greatly outweigh her chances of being worse off or falling into a downward-health spiral in the long run after the surgery, I will effortlessly put money into her medical expenses...and I'm hoping I'm not the only one.

At this point, our final decision as to whether or not the surgery is the best option versus putting her little body to rest is still up for debate...the decision, however, is 100% based on if the surgery has a higher probability of being successful than not and whether or not her quality of life after the surgery will be improved/"normal." As of now, I scheduled an appointment for the next surgery slot available: this coming Tuesday. I have until Monday to cancel. I've been doing my research, calling any vet I know and trust and those referred to me by friends, asking an the same questions over and over and getting a variety of answers that still leave me without a definitive answer...it's going to be a long weekend.

Again, if you are willing to donate toward Dakota's surgery or want to adopt her, please email losmachossatos@gmail.com. For donors, please indicate what amount you are able to contribute for now. Once I get more information/gather my thoughts about what's the best thing to do for the well being of Dakota, you'll know. Thank you to all of you who have been so thoughtful during these unfortunate last couple of days. I wish Dakota could tell me what she wanted. Yes, I've been looking for hints of a message in her soft, brown eyes. She is staying at Dr. Ramos' for the weekend, getting everything she needs to stay comfortable. I miss her face already.

Staying positive,
Shanti and Kota

Hours later, news on Dakota

2008-02-14T15:55:00.002-04:00

If you did not have a chance to read my post from earlier today, I took Dakota to the vet this morning because her condition was not improving while staying with Colin and I. We didn't want to see her get worse before she got better. And now we know why Dakota is not up for frolicking in fields these days.

...Terrible news...Dr. Ramos found several (7 to 8) broken ribs on Dakota's chest X-ray. The X-ray shows that these ribs are broken in such a way that they are digging into portions of her organs, including her lungs, hence her respiratory problems. As if that weren't enough, Dakota also has a hernia (seems like it is diaphragmatic), which explains her eating behaviors and loose stool. Long story short, Dakota is in a lot of pain.

I made an appointment at a veterinary surgeon referred to me by Dr. Ramos for tomorrow morning at 9. Dakota will be spending the night at the vet's office tonight so she can receive the necessary medical attention for her condition....though I wish we could just take her home and feed her chicken and cheese (the only thing she has been willing to eat at our apartment) all night. The surgical specialist will be able to tell me the extent of her internal damage and what options we have in terms of surgery and physical therapy. Yes, there is a possibility that Dakota would be better off being laid to rest...but we're staying hopeful and willing to do ANYTHING if it means she can eventually live a happy and pain-free life.

Right before I put Dakota in my car on the day of her rescue, Jan. 22, 2008

The cause of the 7 or 8 broken ribs??? Well, it's always hard to say with these satos, but Dr. Ramos believes these bones were most likely broken in the same incident that caused her past leg fracture. Considering the damage done, most likely her injuries were caused by being hit by a car or severely beaten some time ago (possible estimate of a year ago based on how her fractures have healed). She's held strong for so long, and we're not about to give up on her now.

Keep your thoughts on sweet Kota...

Dakota, hospitalized again...pobre chica

2008-02-14T11:19:00.008-04:00

Dakota, days after her rescue and days before falling terribly ill. She's not out of the woods yet...
Photo by Liz Kracht

Well, after 5 days of keeping Dakota with us, she unfortunately is not much better than she was the first time we hospitalized her. She barely eats, sleeps 20 hours a day or so, seems sad (not characteristic of her at all) and lacks motivation to do pretty much anything. It's been breaking Colin and my hearts, though she gets up whenever she sees us and wags her tail Dakota-style (reminiscent of a propeller's circular motion) to show she is still all love.

I couldn't stand waiting to see if she'd get better with a few more days since she still has prominent signs of some sort of illness the vet has not been able to peg (a flu, possibly?)...so off the Dr. Ramos' we went this morning. I brought a fecal sample and let the doctor know everything I did about her condition. He said he would do some X-rays on her chest and head to make sure there isn't something more complicated going on, look at her stool again and keep her hospitalized until we have clearer answer as to how we can make her better.

Dakota is an absolute angel and deserves all the medical treatment she needs to get better. This is where I have to ask those who are able to donate whatever you can to Amigos de los Animales and the Los Machos Beach Project to help Dakota get back on her feet again. Even $10 would help....anything. Jamie Sherr, Cisco's sponsor, was kind enough to pass on the remaining funds of her donation intended for Cisco's rescue toward Dakota's first hospitalization (Thanks, Jamie!!). Unfortunately, we do not have funds right now to cover the cost of her second stay at the vet's. This is not to say we won't find a way...just that some help would be immensely appreciated, as it always is.

I'm just looking forward to the next time I see Dakota doing her thing and being spunky: running in figure eights in a grass field until her point of exhaustion, when she proceeds to walk her figure eights and then plop dramatically into the grass, feet in the air, tongue seemingly a foot long dangling from her mouth with what looks like a giant smile on her face. Watching Dakota play is a priceless experience.

A pre-rescue picture of Dakota, playing with fellow Los Machos sata, Riley

Thanks for reading,
Shanti

Bass and Cisco are officially stateside!

2008-02-09T14:19:00.001-04:00

Yesterday, two of our Los Machos satos (among several other satos) officially flew to New Jersey to be put up for adoption at St. Hubert's Animal Welfare Center. It was a beautiful night. I have no doubt in my mind that Cisco and Bass will be adopted easily. Of course, I will have updates about their adoptions as they happen.

Cisco and Bass, from top to bottom, both in crates next to each other at the San Juan airport, moments away from flying to St. Hubert's Animal Welfare Center in Madison, NJ

On a less happy note, our darlin' Dakota fell quite ill at her foster home. While I was in California, I received a call from Adri (her foster momma) saying that Dakota was depressed, not eating and getting even skinnier than she already was...hard to believe. A week prior to this call from Adri, I did notice during a visit to see her that her spirit was different. I, however, just chalked it up to her being overwhelmed by the male dogs that were also being fostered by Adri or that she was just going through an adjustment period.

As soon as I got back, we took her to the vet and had her hospitalized for 2 nights. Dr. Ramos seems to think she was simply depressed and her immune system failed to keep her healthy. I certainly hope that's the case. I took her to Colin and my apartment yesterday and will hang onto her until her antibiotics are finished and we see some meat on her bones. Poor baby...

Dakota, who took over our cat's bed, has a bony little butt we need to take care of
...she's still as sweet as ever.

While having her here, I'm realizing even more how loving of a dog she is and how wonderful it is to have her off the streets and closer to having a forever home. She's exceptional. In the small amount of time I've spent with this dog, she truly trusts me (it might be that I use a ridiculously annoying baby voice with her all the time). She does this with any person who is nice to her...it's adorable.

Please keep yourselves informed of other sato-related happenings on this island, i.e. the recent decision to carry out the "beach adoption" of Dead Dog Beach in Yabucoa. I am hoping to take a week off from Los Machos rescuing to help out with the efforts to scoop up the remaining satos from Yabucoa. The rumor is that other beaches are in danger of similar actions by local governments. Check out Ginny's (from Manos por Patas) blog entry:

http://www.manosporpatas.org/blog/2008/02/nightmare-continues.html

Shanti

Introducing our sata, Boca

2008-02-01T23:52:00.000-04:00

It dawned on me today that I haven't yet shared pictures of our sata, Boca. Boca was one of the first two rescues we took off Los Machos Beach in December. My husband, Colin, found her, or I should say she found him, about one quarter of a mile from the beach. She had a belly full of worms and the most pathetic little puppy face. Though we had already decided to foster Roxy, a Basenji-mix we found earlier that day, it was hard to resist taking Boca home as well. So we did. We unfortunately have no good pictures from the day we found her, but here's one of her now.

Boca, our sata, running away from the scary ocean...we're working on it.

Colin and I wanted to get a dog sooner or later, and sooner prevailed. She's graced our life with unlimited kisses and gratefulness. There's just something special about these satos. I highly suggest getting one of your own.

Shanti

Another rescue!

2008-01-30T15:21:00.000-04:00

Last week, the Los Machos Beach Project received a generous donation from Jamie Sherr, a regular donor from New Jersey and proud owner of a Puerto Rican sato. Jamie requested the donation be used to sponsor, Cisco (pictured also on the first post of this blog), in honor of her friend Gary Thomas' birthday. Well, Jamie...Cisco is officially off the street and safe in his new foster home at Adri's thanks to you.

Cisco, finally off Los Machos and in my car, confused about where he was going

I picked up this beautiful boy at around 9 this morning. Cisco and I headed straight to Dr. Ramos' in Puerto Nuevo. He was fantastic in the car, digging his nose into my armpit and hiding there for prolonged periods of time every now and then. He had no internal or external parasites, just some battle wounds from the recent dog-on-dog fighting on the streets (the ladies are in heat; therefore, the boys are picking their favorites and fighting for them). Altogether, he's healthy and that much closer to having a forever home.

Cisco, finally safe, on his way to the vet and then to his temporary foster home

On a sad note, however, I have to admit to feeling slightly defeated when I went to pick up Cisco from Los Machos. There were at least 4 more new dogs on the street, recently dropped off and absolutely darling. I felt, for a moment, that for every dog we rescue, a new one needing our help will appear. Obviously, this vicious cycle has to have an end...and then I jump back to the idea of raising funds for a piece of land for a sato shelter. On that note, supposedly the mayor of Ceiba wants to create a shelter for the local satos. My first gut reaction is that this shelter may end up being a "killing factory." Melodie is planning to speak to the mayor this coming Monday to offer our help for the supposed shelter...perhaps if there are enough of us willing to keep the shelter going, he will be more inclined to give these animals the chance they deserve to have a home.

Here's an action shot of one of the new additions to Los Machos, most likely just recently dropped off. I named her "Laylita" or "Layla." She loves to love.

Yes, I am so happy that since the launching of this blog (Jan. 20, 2008), three of our satos are no longer homeless. With all of your donations and support, this surge of rescues has been possible. We cannot thank you enough for the donations we have received so far. To highlight another specific successful rescue, thanks to two separate donations from Christina Beckles and Molly Weaver, Mika (featured in my 3rd blog post) is New York-bound once we arrange a good time to ship her. It is so motivating to receive your emails and letters along with donations, solidifying the necessity for this project. Please keep them coming and let others know that there are plenty of dogs that need help down here.

I will be in California until Feb. 5...when I get back, I should have news as to whether or not Bass, Dakota, and/or Cisco will be heading to St. Hubert's in New Jersey to be put up for adoption. Also when I return, ADLA will be meeting to discuss whether or not turning Adri's house into an animal shelter of sorts is a good idea or not. It's worked pretty well so far (Thanks, Adri!!), but needs some fine tuning. We will be working on getting some funding to build runs/cages for the bigger dogs, have confinement areas for any contagious animals, keep a consistent flow of dog food coming into the shelter, etc. Some more volunteers would be nice as well, since we can't have Adri carrying all the weight by herself. Stay tuned...

Shanti

Rumor of poisoning

2008-01-27T17:53:00.000-04:00

On Thursday night, a Ceiba local had heard through the grapevine that our Los Machos satos were in danger of being poisoned. By whom? Not clear. How was this rumor started? Also not clear. Our Ceiba animal family kept their eyes and ears open that night, while I tossed and turned an hour away in San Juan. First thing the next morning, I started calling around to check the status of the satos. Finally, Maria Garcia, also a Ceiba local, was kind enough to inform me the usuals were accounted for and that no suspicious-looking piles of food were found lying around. Whether or not the rumor was legit and just not carried out isn't worth questioning. It would not be surprising if it were true, as it wouldn't be the first time. So far to my knowledge of the last couple years, several small-scale poisonings (killing from two to 10 or so dogs) have occurred on and near Los Machos Beach. At any given point, someone or some people may decide they've had it with the satos roaming "their" streets...poisoning seems to be the preferred method of decreasing dog numbers.

Just a week or so ago, Melodie was approached by a farmer that tends to the grazing animals about a quarter of a mile away from the beach. He told her that a pack of satos took out one of his calves recently. This in NOT good. Melodie hopes she convinced him that we would like to work with him to remove these dogs from the area and therefore keep his herd safe...he acted as though he would be willing to cooperate. I would love if it were that simple, but am cursed with being realistic and slightly paranoid. Obviously I cannot assume that the rumor of a mass poisoning and the irate farmer are linked.

Regardless, I feel that the heat is on. Oh that saying..."you can't save them all." It's been haunting me a bit lately. Moving a couple dogs every two weeks or so will not suffice if talk of mass poisonings are floating around. We are throwing around the idea of buying or renting some land near Los Machos to create a shelter. Our eyes are open for any reasonably priced land. In theory, this could work...a safe haven near Los Machos where we can temporarily place and keep an eye on the satos. In reality, however, would confining these dogs to an area simply make it easier to "exterminate" them? Discussions are in progress about the prospective shelter and how we can raise the funds for it if we decide to commence the project. Next on our list, however (aside from taking a dog off the beach every now and again), is organizing a spay/neuter event for Los Machos Beach...we'll keep you posted.

Shanti

Seeking donations for Mika

2008-01-24T13:59:00.000-04:00

Mika is a Napoleon Mastiff, around 2 years old, currently being fostered by Melodie Rios, my partner in crime for the Los Machos Beach Project. It seems as though the original plan for shipping Mika to her new home upstate New York maybe falling loose, due to monetary constraints of the sponsor. However, if we can get together some donations for our beloved, 100 lb., gorgeous beauty, she can be shipped out in the next week or two.

Mika, a ~100 lb. Napoleon Mastiff who I've claimed as my favorite of Melodie's "pack," has a home waiting for her in upstate New York. However, her sponsor lacks the funds to ship her...can you help?

Mika was rescued as misunderstood, protective dog who wasn't successful on the streets due to her intimidating size. Melodie decided to foster her when she was notified that she was to be euthanized for being aggressive towards a government official. She is a special dog and has been through enough for being only two years old. She may have been considered "scary" when she first entered Melodie's life, but you wouldn't be able to tell now. In the safe environment she has been in for the past few months, she has grown into a silly, playful and loyal dog. What she needs a solid, understanding home where she will never see a raised hand of abuse...and Melodie found such a home. Any amount would be greatly appreciated.

Shanti

2 more dogs off the beach!

2008-01-23T07:05:00.001-04:00

Well, yesterday was a huge day for the Los Machos Beach project on several fronts. I left my apartment in San Juan at around 8 am to go take two, long-time residents of Los Machos off the streets and into foster care at Adrienne Galler Lastra's (or Adri, as we fondly call her) home in Piñones. The two lucky satos' names are Dakota and Bass, who both were featured in my last post. Both dogs are extremely docile animals and need to be in an environment where their love and affection will be reciprocated. And so they shall...

With collar on and all, this was a moment before Bass took his car ride to his temporary foster home (at Adri's). Finally, this big boy full of unconditional love and trust is that much closer to having a home that deserves him.

Adri's house has sort of become the ADLA shelter for us. The location and Adri herself are a blessing to our organization, and it would be an understatement to say we are all extremely grateful for her contribution to these beautiful creatures. A large number of satos stay at Adri's at any given point (last month, she housed 29 dogs and puppies!!) and are rehabilitated there until they are shipped to the U.S. Many of these fostered animals end up in St. Hubert's of New Jersey (St. Hubert's Website), a shelter that Elizabeth Kracht of ADLA began a relationship with, and since has taken in sato after sato. As of now, the plan is for Dakota and Bass to go to St. Hubert's on Feb. 8, as long as they can prove that they are adoptable, socialable and not aggressive in their new environment. Needless to say, we aren't too worried about their placement.

At Adri's, after a long car ride from Los Machos Beach, settling in beautifully. Step 1: fattening her up so she can live up to her gorgeous potential.

And as if a double rescue wasn't enough, I was greeted by Jeannette Rivera-Lyles (reporter) and Sara A. Fajardo (photographer) of the Orlando Sentinel upon arriving at Adri's with Dakota and Bass. The Orlando Sentinel is the primary newspaper in Orlando, Florida and has been in publication since 1876. Needless to say, these dogs are getting the attention they need in order to see change in their world. Jeannette and Sara asked the right questions to get the point across to their readers, my favorite question being (with respect to the cruelty and prejudice towards street animals in general in Puerto Rico), "How did we get to this point?"...At what point did people on this island decide that a street dog was equivalent to that of a diseased rodent? (my translation of the original question). In my opinion, when it is culturally acceptable to be cruel to animals, to dispose of a dog because he or she is no longer serving the purpose intended, to not spay or neuter a pet due to ignorance (i.e. believe a dog will not be as smart, physically able and/or "manly" in the case of a male dog) allowing for the number of unwanted animals to climb higher, when there is no enforcement of the laws that should protect these animals because those enforcers are of the same tainted mindset, the product = conditions like those at Los Machos or "Dead Dog Beach" in Yabucoa. And sadly it isn't in just these centralized locations.

People's minds can be changed, I'm sure of it. And this media attention Puerto Rico has received recently, especially in the instance of the Pet Massacre where an estimated 80 former pets and strays were thrown off a bridge in Barceloneta by a company called Animal Control Solutions, may be the beginning the awaited evolution of thought. I was ecstatic to talk to Jeannette and Sara yesterday and love that Dakota and Bass are going to be famous because of their visit. And, of course, I will post a link to the story/photos/video when it becomes available.

So, 2 less dogs at Los Machos...It's a great feeling.

An introduction to "Los Satos de Playa Los Machos"

2008-01-20T11:03:00.001-04:00

"Sato" is a slang term used in Puerto Rico to refer to a street/stray dog. Satos are scattered everywhere across the island and are the primary concern of this blog. More specifically, the purpose of this blog is to spread awareness of the satos of Los Machos Beach, located in a small town called Ceiba on the east coast of Puerto Rico, the primary goal being to remove these satos from the beach and place them into loving homes. Our work is entirely volunteer-based and with the best intentions. We are part of a local non-profit, Amigos de los Animales, Inc. (ADLA), working to rescue, rehabilitate and find homes for the 40 to 50 or so dogs located within about a square mile around Los Machos Beach. While many ADLA volunteers are focusing their energy on other locations around the island and succeeding beautifully in getting lovable, adoptable dogs off the streets, Los Machos Beach is in desperate need of the same attention. So pay attention readers...our Los Machos satos are ready to bring radiant love and extreme gratefulness into their future forever homes!

One of the 3 or 4 dog herds gathered around my car, waiting for some food and lovin'.

The state of Los Machos Beach is depressing, to say the least. Each visit there, we are welcomed with wagging tails and eyes of love. As wonderful as these dogs are, the environment and situations that surround them are far from that. This area is known for mass dog poisonings and beatings of the local satos, and we have witnessed the aftermath of these inhumane actions. Waiting to see if their situation will magically improve is not an option. Going to Los Machos Beach once a week and each time fearing that we will find one of these gorgeous, ready-to-love-forever dogs hurt or sick beyond repair or no longer alive is an option I'm barely able to stomach. The cruelty witnessed so far...dead dogs continuously dumped next to the beach wrapped in double, black plastic bags, sometimes only certain parts of a dog's body enclosed...a perfectly friendly and social dog one week becoming stand-offish and fearful of any human it sees the next week...deceased dogs sprawled across a field, all surrounding a common food source that was undoubtedly poisoned...just a few highlights. I feel personally obligated to rescue as many of these dogs as I am physically able, and I'm asking for your help to make this happen.

And one picture of the reality:

We don't know how this dog died, though we are reluctant to believe it was natural. A series of bagged dead dogs have been disposed of next to Los Machos beach in the same place, all bagged in a similar manner. Aside from the overwhelming scent of decay, there was also a chemical odor in this instance.

There has definitely been some progress since the project began. For all those who have graciously donated, fostered, adopted and/or given support in various other ways, we are extremely grateful. We are moving forward to help those that remain stranded at the beach with continued support and intense hope.

All of our work in based solely on donations, 100% of which goes directly to the welfare of these animals. On average, the cost of taking one of these dogs off the street is at least $300, which includes all of their initial shots, spay/neuter, boarding (if necessary), food, shipping fees to the U.S. (where most of these dogs go to be adopted), and other necessary health related tests and procedures. We currently do not have an official shelter space...with more funding, we hope to make this happen. For now, boarding and fostering animals until they are shipped has worked for us.

A bit about ADLA, as written on the organization's website:

"Amigos de los Animales (ADLA) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to animal welfare issues faced on the island of Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico is currently considered a Commonwealth of The United States, and it is ADLA's hope that Humane Education will quickly take root in Puerto Rico as it has in the Continental U.S. ADLA both rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes abused and abandoned companion and farm animals, and also facilitates the rescue of such animals alongside other rescue organizations in Puerto Rico. ADLA successfully wages cruelty investigations when necessary, and is involved in Humane Education efforts/campaigns island wide. ADLA continually has its eye on the 'big picture' for Puerto Rico, and is not limited in its involvement in planning for a humane Puerto Rico." --www.amigosdelosanimalespr.org

A little about the manager the Los Machos Beach Project:

Shanti Santulli (Blog Writer)
Shanti recently moved to Puerto Rico from San Diego, CA in July 2007 for her husband's job relocation. Her entire life has been surrounded by animals, from having a plethora of house pets of different species to working at a no-kill animal shelter in Chicago, IL for two years. Shanti was fortunate enough to meet Melodie Rios and Elizabeth Kracht of ADLA and decided to return to investing her time in animal welfare issues. Her first visit to Ceiba and Los Machos Beach alerted her to the urgency of the sato problem in that area. One week later, she, along with her husband Colin, took home two Los Machos satos to foster and eventually adopt out. Now Shanti and Colin are planning to be perpetual sato foster parents, in hopes that a majority of the dogs at Los Machos will have a forever home as soon as possible. Shanti is also working on networking with stateside animal shelters to spread awareness of the animal welfare situation in Los Machos Beach, hoping that shelters that show interest in the situation may accept our satos into their shelters and put them up for adoption.

In short, we (as in ADLA) are committed to our four-legged friends on Los Machos Beach and are determined to change to the way these animals live.

To start, here are a handful of our personal favorites these days...and yes, they are all up for adoption and/or sponsoring.

Bass, formerly known as "Black and Tan" (young adult)

Considering this gorgeous Doberman mix was the center of a hardcore beating in front of the other Los Machos dogs, he is surprisingly loving, friendly, approachable and just plain awesome.

Chalupa, or just Lupa (young adult)
What a little beauty and a sweetheart. She often tags along with us as we do our rounds. She's a tiny bundle of love.

Gizmo (young adult)
She's in great shape and has a darling personality. Well, she could use a bath. Sadly, we have not seen her in our recent visits...we'll keep you posted.

Dakota...aka Kota (~ 1 year old, medium-sized)
Shanti's personal favorite Los Machos sata, Kota is extremely social, trusting and playful. She was, at some time in the past, hit by a car or something along those lines, leaving her a bit gimpy (left, hind leg), though barely noticable.

Cisco (young adult, medium-sized)
He's one of the dogs out there that seems equally as interested in getting some love as being fed meat and cheese. We can't wait to get him off the streets.

So, here's a intro to the Los Machos satos...please check back for constant updates.

Please email us if you have any questions or comments.

Thanks for reading,
Shanti