Cruelty towards animals is constantly happening, and despite our best efforts, it seems sometimes that we are fighting a losing battle. But we cannot abandon these animals to their often-unspeakable fate, even though the amount of time and money it costs us is escalating all the time.
Victoria is one such case. This little dog was thrown onto the road, with her legs broken. She screamed in pain as her feet burned on the 40-degree asphalt, and she desperately tried to reach water so she could drink. She had been there for more than 24 hours after her owner had tried to kill her by throwing her out of a moving vehicle. Fortunately, a Guarida helper picked her up and she was able to receive veterinary treatment. The vet confirmed that this is all too common – first an owner will remove the dog’s microchip, so he cannot be identified, and then the dog is thrown away like a piece of rubbish.
Victoria’s care cost 450 euros and she spent 15 days in the vet hospital. She was also spayed, and received her vaccinations, microchip, passport and blood tests. She is now awaiting adoption.

‘Bloo’ was only a puppy but he had a severe eye infection and was covered in ticks. Not only that but he also suffered from seizures.  Sadly, we could not save his eye but he had successful neuro-surgery, which cost 300 euros.
‘Wanda’ was so stressed from past abuse that she literally ate her own tail. She had been put out for adoption, but was returned as the family could not cope with her habit. She eventually had to have surgery to remove what was left of her tail – 200 euros, including spaying.
We found ‘Spuky’ while we were at the town feria, trying to improve the lot of the ponies and horses there. He was whimpering and trying to drag himself along – he had a dislocated hip. No-one would take responsibility for him so yet again, we did.
His surgery cost 500 euros.
The politicians say that cruelty to animals in Spain is not common – we all know this is not true. These four cases came to us in just 15 days, but we cannot carry on our work without donations. Quite simply, we have run out of money, and the prospect of all the sick, maltreated and injured dogs being left to their fate is one we cannot bear to contemplate.
So if you can help with a donation, however small, please make it to LA CAIXA 2100-2631-87-0110322978.
We are relying on your help, and both we and the animals you help will be eternally grateful.
NURIA   WWW.LAGUARIDA.ORG