It’s a cold February night. Winter holds on stubbornly as another cold front pushes through. The absence of food, water and shelter has driven a mama dog to temporarily leave her eight newborn pups to search for something that will sustain her as she does her best to care for her brood. But the search is futile this night. She wearily returns to her tiny puppies in hopes that her body heat and the little milk she can manufacture in her dehydrated state can comfort them. Sleep comes slowly as hunger and anxiety grip her skin and bone frame. She will search again tomorrow.

In normal times, chances are a good Samaritan would see this incredibly sad situation and take action. But these are not normal times, and the combination of Covid-19, poverty, and the ever-changing rules at the border have exacerbated a crisis for the street dogs of Peñasco. Not only has their population increased as more families have had to release them, the beacon of hope for these animals, Barb’s Dog Rescue, is now, in many cases, unable to help.

If it were just a question of food supplies, Barb could rely on the donations of her generous supporters. If it were just the need for blankets, beds and dog sweaters to stave off the cold, the people of Rocky Point or Facebook friends would answer that call. But you can’t manufacture space when there is simply none left. Once again, Barb’s is out of room. Every pen, every enclosure, the kitchen, the office, the bathrooms, and bedrooms have reached and now exceed capacity.

How Can You Help?

We are limited by current border restrictions on the number of dogs we can transport each week. Consequently, we have many dogs that have been adopted and are simply waiting for transportation to their forever homes in Arizona. If you can help us transport a dog to his/her new owners, contact Barb or stop by the Rescue between 10 and 2 for more information. Our adoptive dogs have had all vaccinations, been spayed or neutered, and have the appropriate documentation to cross the border.  

Additionally, if you are a Rocky Point resident, please consider fostering a puppy or two in your home. The socialization and care you provide them is so valuable. Better still, adopt one of our adult residents. Rescue dogs make wonderful companions and will reward your generosity with undying love and affection. Each of these options opens up much needed space for other puppies and dogs who desperately need our help.

Meet Coco

Coco was undernourished, pregnant and wandering the streets of Peñasco when she came to us. Under Barb’s care, her pups were delivered safely, nurtured, and adopted. Now it’s Coco’s turn. This three-ish year-old female is a compound favorite. She is sweet, affectionate, and would make a wonderful addition to any home. Come out and meet her, fall in love, and make her yours!

Please visit us online at http://www.facebook.com/BarbsDogRescue or our website: www.BarbsDogRescue.org or Barb’s Mexico cell: (638) 114-1659 or U.S. cell: (602) 774-1578 Email: barbsdogrescue@gmail.com