The story of a vacationing couple who went out of their way to assist stray animals deeply touched my heart.
During their recent trip to La Paz, Mexico, Jeff and Diana Hall came across a sizable group of stray cats and dogs cohabiting on the beach. Unfortunately, many of them were malnourished and in need of immediate medical attention, yet they displayed incredible affection towards the couple. Jeff and Diana, proud owners of the Camp Bow Wow doggy day camp in Burnsville, MN, were astonished to count 34 animals in the pack.
We’ve got quite the furry crew here! Let me introduce you to them: we have eight adorable pups who are just beginning to explore the world at about three to four weeks old. Additionally, there are five slightly older pups, full of energy at around 14 weeks old. Our pack also includes 14 adult dogs, each with their unique personalities and quirks. And last but not least, we have seven cats who assert their dominance in their own special ways. So, if you’re an animal lover, you’re certainly in the right place!
The Halls were well aware of the dog overpopulation issue in Mexico, particularly in Baja California Sur, where there are approximately 10,000 stray dogs. Nevertheless, they were taken aback by the sheer number of dogs and cats living together as a pack, all struggling to survive.
Upon laying eyes on the “Baja 34 Pack” of animals, they felt an immediate need to provide assistance. However, they soon realized that taking any of these animals home was not a feasible option due to various rules and regulations.
Despite this setback, they remained undeterred, actively seeking nearby rescue organizations and devising strategies to offer continued support to the dogs and cats.
While the Halls searched for rescue organizations, they ensured the pack received regular food and water. To their surprise, all the animals exhibited an incredible sense of camaraderie. They ate together, with no competition for food, not even among the cats!
The Halls shared on their GoFundMe page that they offered the furry animals some wet food and fed them small portions using a fork. Interestingly, all the animals, including the cats, took turns waiting patiently and enjoyed their meal.
The group exhibited amiability and good manners. Although it took some time, they were able to gain the trust of a few, who eventually became comfortable enough to eat from their hands. Even the most initially resistant individual eventually warmed up to them.
The Halls reached out to a nearby no-kill shelter for assistance but were disappointed to learn that the shelter was already at full capacity and couldn’t provide help. Nevertheless, the couple persevered and discovered a rescue group called Baja Dogs La Paz. This group specializes in rescuing dogs and bringing them to the US and Canada for adoption. Fortunately, they are collaborating with the shelter and extending their assistance to the Halls for their rescue mission.
The Halls are currently raising funds to support the Baja 34 Pack. Their goal is to provide the animals with necessary medical attention, including spaying and neutering, health checkups, and vaccinations. Additionally, they plan to transport these animals to Minnesota in the hopes of finding them loving forever homes.
Since embarking on their mission, several of the canines have found loving homes, and a few adorable pups have made their way to Minnesota.
According to the Halls, all these dogs and cats are well-mannered and would make wonderful additions to any family as beloved pets.
Their trust in us left us both amazed and hopeful, as we could see a glimmer of hope in their eyes. It was evident that they were not only hungry for food but also yearning for affection.
The Halls have provided the pack with a brighter outlook for their upcoming days!
If you wish to contribute to the Baja 34 Rescue Project, visit their fundraising page on GoFundMe. Furthermore, if you’re interested in providing a home to one of these lovely animals, get in touch with them through their website. The initiative they’ve taken to rescue these dogs is truly remarkable! Please help spread the word about their admirable work among your friends and acquaintances!
