Dogs greet Saga Humane Society Shelter Manager Diovan Sanchez

    According to Chairperson Eileen Jamison, this project has been on hold for several years because of financial challenges and the need for land. "We are a non-profit, non-governmental organization, and basically exist on the donations of tourists or the business community of San Pedro for our funding," she explained. Reportedly, the Society has been awaiting word about the donation of land for most of this time period. Dogs were formerly housed at the Society's Veterinary Clinic, located across the street from Ramon's Village Resort. The number of dogs needing homes soon became a problem though, and the Society's directors sought another location. Aware that an ideal lot was available (perfectly suited for this purpose), which belonged to Richard Headrick (the owner of Ramon's Village Resort), a letter was drafted and sent to request his assistance with this matter. Since the largest amount of complaints (i.e., barking dogs) came from guests residing across the street, Ramon's management was eager to help solve the Society's challenge. With assistance from Ramon Nuñez, Einer Gomez, and Steve Sherwin, a conditional lease was secured from Richard Headrick for the use of this lot.

    Next on the agenda was procuring the builder and supplies needed to fence the area. Ready, willing and able to volunteer his services was local resident Bill Wilkinson, who came to the rescue as supervisor for the project. After arranging for the lumber and supplies, a builder, and sand for fill, the project was complete. On May 21st, 2004, Saga Humane Society staff and volunteers relocated the dogs to their new "deluxe accommodations".

    In a brief interview with the shelter residents, one dog commented, "WOW - some room to breathe! I can finally stretch out, without another tail in my face!" The others barked and wagged their tails in agreement.

    Saga Humane Society takes this opportunity to thank all the people and businesses who gave generously in some way or another to accomplish this goal: Bill Wilkinson, Benny's Homecenter, Krystal Shipping, Caribbean Depot, Castillo's Hardware, Caribbean Rental, Belize Rural South, San Pedro Town Council, Mark Worthington, Ingrid Lima, Diovan Sanchez, Albert Lammey, and anyone else who may have inadvertently been missed. In addition, special thanks go out to Susan Johnson, for all of her kindness and patience over the years.

    The public is reminded that this temporary shelter is strictly for Saga Humane Society use and only houses adoptable stray animals. It is NOT being used to contain the stray animals currently being sought by the San Pedro Town Council. Anyone who has lost a dog or cat should always contact the Humane Society though, in case someone has rescued the animal and left it in Saga's care. Also, in order to maintain a serene atmosphere at the shelter, residents are asked to please not taunt, tease or otherwise upset sheltered animals so that they do not become a nuisance to their neighbors.

    Several dogs, puppies, cats and kittens are awaiting adoption at this time. Any person wishing to provide a loving home for an animal may call 226-3266, E-mail [email protected] or visit the Saga Humane Society Veterinary Clinic on Coconut Drive across from Ramon's Village Resort. In addition, the Society's website, (ambergriscaye.com/saga) will soon feature pictures of San Pedro's homeless animals whose only wish is to become loving pets.

    Because of the large number of puppies and adult dogs currently being homed by the Society, food is an enormous expense. (Puppy and kitten formulas are preferred but any and all donations are gratefully accepted!) Anyone wishing to contribute cat or dog food may drop it off at the Saga Humane Society Veterinary Clinic or call 226-3266 to arrange for a pick up.