AWARE seemed to be doing pretty well for a while. The Covid phenomenon started off by inspiring people to adopt dogs, which was great for us. But as time goes by it’s becoming more a case of people losing their source of income and no longer able to afford the upkeep of pets. Hence a big increase in abandoned, sick and hurt animals brought to the Shelter, and a scramble for us to get repairs finished and new facilities built. We have had to take on new staff and manage the frustrations of training and adaptation periods – both for the new employees and for the dogs and cats. Talking of the cats – we’ve gone from a comfortable, reasonable population pretty much settled from the last batch of admissions to cages full of mothers and kittens, and talk of adding a second storey to the Cathouse. It’s a whirlwind. And to cap it all the devastating (but at least partially understandable) revelation that the US has now outlawed the import of domestic animals from 113 countries, Guatemala included. The ban will take effect on July 19th and will probably be permanent. Here’s a link to more complete information in case you think you might be affected: The U.S. Bans Importing Dogs From 113 Countries After Rise In False Rabies Records    The reason given is a surge in falsified rabies vaccination certificates, but when that rubber stamp hit the document we felt the reverberations from here, and it certainly sounded permanent. 

So yes, we need your help again! Please! The aim of this campaign is to raise $4,000 towards the costs of running the shelter. Will you help us? No matter the amount, every little helps and is much appreciated. In the name of all the animals at AWARE - THANK YOU!