Dogs of Nicaragua

[justreturned]

I am just back from Nicaragua (Granada, Ometepe, Pacific Coast) and was deeply saddened to see so many starving, nearly skeletal dogs. I'm pretty sensitive and concerned when it comes to animals and had a difficult time enjoying mysellf with so many suffering dogs around. Two questions:
1. Are the dogs suffering because their owners are suffering and starving as well, or are dogs just not regarded there as they are in my community?
2. How can I help? Does anyone know of any aid organizations that do this type of work specifically?

[Randall Wood]

I'd say you're right on both accounts.  Dogs aren't treated the way they are in more developed countries, and it's a cultural difference overall.  But Nicaragua's poverty also plays a role - there's just less food around for everyone.  The Nicaraguans living in Miami I know have little fat dogs though, so I guess as they get better off they treat their animals better as well.

The best place in the country for helping out is Donna Tabor's Building New Hope (106 Overton Lane, Pittsburgh, PA 15217,  412-421-1625, www.buildingnewhope.com).  Their Casa Lupita project is spaying/neutering stray animals and providing free veterinary service to the rest.  They have some heartwarming stories about animals they help, but function on donated time and resources, so I'm sure they would be glad to help you find a way to make a difference, particularly if you are a vet with some free time.

[justreturned]

Great! I actually met someone who was working with this project while in Granada...he was working with kids, not dogs. I will contact her right away. Thank you.

[cristina4573]

I'm headed to Nicaragua in 2 weeks and my cousin told me about this problem.  I too am extremely sensitive being a dog owner myself.  Please keep me updated if you find out about any other places that help specifically with dogs. 
Also, any advice or tidbits you have for my trip I would greatly appreciate it.

[Joshua Berman]

he was working with kids, not dogs.

Ay, there's the rub. Some people prefer to help starving children over starving dogs -- either way, it's difficult when you have both hungry children and skeletal dogs looking up at you while you eat your lunch, waiting patiently for your chicken bones.

[justreturned]

I have contacted the organization in Pittsburg. Please understand that nothing bad was meant by my "he was working with kids, not dogs" post. I was just noting that the organization helps both kids and dogs. Thank you again.