Help the Island Dogs & Cats
If you spend any time on land, you may see a few stray dogs or cats wandering around the islands. After the latest hurricanes, there has been an increase in the number of strays as peoples homes were demolished. But don’t worry, there are some amazing organizations dedicated to the well-being of these animals.
- The Humane Society of the British Virgin Islands is a non-profit organization dedicated to saving and sheltering stray, unwanted, and sometimes abused and mistreated animals of the BVI.
- PAW (Promoting Animal Welfare) BVI is a non-profit organization raising funds to offer spay/neuter programs to decrease the number of unwanted, stray animals.
How You Can Help the Island Dogs & Cats:
1. Donate
These organizations run purely off of donations from kind people like you. You can donate cash (of course) or you can organize a supply drive before your trip and bring in-kind donations. They always need supplies such as towels, toys, tick & flea medication, leashes, collars, and food. These rescues often post Amazon Wish-Lists so you can even donate supplies from afar!
2. Volunteer!
Want to spend some extra time on land volunteering with the animals? The Humane Society of the BVI would love to have you come and walk one of their dogs, and their dogs would be oh so appreciative to get out and get some love.
3. Consider being an escort
By that, I mean there are local rescues that have dogs and cats ready to go to their new homes in the United States and Canada, but they need an escort to take them on the plane! It is absolutely no cost to you, they cover the cost of the medical and travel paperwork, and you get a cute travel buddy that will be sure to make you popular on your plane! You will be met at the airport on your day of departure with your furry travel companion, and again at your destination by their new owners or sponsors.
I personally have escorted three dogs from Antigua to Canada with Dogs and Cats of Antigua, and brought them to their new homes and it is the most rewarding experience. I still get updates from their new parents and they are all living amazing lives in Canada.
4. Adopt a new fur baby!
If you’re looking to bring a new family member home, give an island dog/cat a chance! There is an abundance of dogs, cats, puppies and kittens waiting for a forever home. We would be more than happy to help you with this, they are even welcome on the boat.
By: Sasha R – January 3, 2020
