Dogs are everywhere in Guatemala and often they're not living under the best of circumstances. But times are a-changing... More and more people have their dogs spayed and neutered and responsible pet ownership is becoming a thing. Even the government is stepping up with the Unidad de Bienestar Animal (Unit for Animal Welfare), where, for example, abuse can be reported. But there is still work to do, and where better to start than with kids! They tend to love animals and are often more perceptive than adults. Hence this mural at the After School Program from People in Guatemala (Centro de Apoyo Educativo y Vocacional, Unidos por la Salud y Educación de Guatemala) where 70 kids receive daily extra classes. Hopefully this mural will inspire young and old to love and respect animals, to care for them and to create a better world for all of us.
The text in the background is based on the definitions of animal rights as promoted by the Unidad de Bienestar Animal:
Every animal should live:
- Free from hunger, thirst, and malnutrition
- Free from fear and distress
- Free from physical and thermal discomfort
- Free from pain, injury, and disease
- Free to express their natural behaviors
This mural was generously sponsored by
Dr. Jim Bader, a US veterinarian with a long history in Guatemala! Dr. Jim has visited the country dozens of times, doing free surgeries and bringing much needed supplies to rescuers and animal welfare groups. Thank you Jim!
