In November of 2006, Dhorea was introduced to Dr. Pepe Acosta a veterinarian and employee of Central Salud (the Government Health Ministry). Pepe enthusiastically supported Dhorea's plans for a free spay and neuter clinic. He introduced her to Dr. Marcos Acuña, who agreed to help with this sterilization program. Central Salud, under Dr. Acuña's direction provided medications, assisting personal and locations. This joint effort contributed greatly to the success of the program. Dr. Calvin Rice of Winnipeg, Manitoba, volunteered to come to La Paz to help with our program. On behalf of Baja Dogs Helpline of La Paz, Dr. Rice worked five days a week for a three month period, spaying dogs and cats "gratis", and teaching his surgery skills to other veterinarians who helped with the program.


From left to right:
Our hero Dr. Rice with Drs. Acosta & Thomas

Starting in El Centenario and moving to different outlying colonias, the team worked in challenging conditions sometimes without running water. In all, over 500 dogs and 200 cats were spayed. Assuming two litters a year for each female, this team potentially prevented 8,400 unwanted kittens and puppies from being born in the first year alone!

Dr. Rice has returned to Canada, but with dedicated Board members, support from the community and donations from people like you, Baja Dogs Helpline of La Paz can continue their Spay and Neuter program. Remember a donation of 250 pesos (aprox $25.00) can spay 1 dog! Please help.