S.P.A.: Big Boys with Big Hearts

By Megan Gabel

Butch was just a baby when he arrived at the Society of the Protection of Animals (S.P.A.) in January 2020 – only 2 weeks old. Even as a puppy, he was large for his age, far bigger than his sister who was adopted quickly. At the beginning, he was very shy, hiding from potential adopters, even the patient ones. Now almost 3-1/2 years old, he has grown into a handsome boy, strong and athletic. He does not shy away from new volunteers who want to take him for a walk or give him a treat when he sits. For such a large boy, he has a soft mouth, taking the treat as if it were the best possible thing in the world. He enjoys going for a walk and is willing to pull you along if you do not keep up with him. He likes other dogs and is happy, enthusiastic, and sweet. 

Tigre, almost 5 years old, is a large dog who is sweet and gentle despite his imposing looks. When he first arrived at the S.P.A. in August 2021, he was very stubborn. It was necessary to lure him with a treat to get him to move. Nowadays, his love of treats has not changed, but his stubbornness has. He is very willing to go for a walk and slowly lopes along the sidewalk outside the S.P.A. He is easy to walk and does not pull on leash. He is low-key, friendly, and an exceptionally good boy.

Bailey is a very agile, energetic, happy boy. You can see it in his smile. A medium-large dog, just a little over 1 year old, he loves to chase balls, toys, and Frisbees. He does not seem to know his own strength. He is very eager to go for a walk and is learning to be patient while waiting to be leashed and while being walked. Walking him is a challenge because he is so strong and is newly being taught discipline and manners. He is responding well to his lessons. Bailey is joyful. He is very friendly with people.

Charlie is a handsome, sweet dog who likes to give hugs. Medium-sized, about 1to 1 and ½ years old, he is a delightful dog, friendly with people and other dogs. He is eager to go for a walk and greets every volunteer on his way out for his daily walk. He is learning not to jump up as part of his greeting. Once outside, he walks easily on a leash. 

Meet Butch, Tigre, Bailey, and Charlie at the S.P.A. any day, Monday-Saturday, 11am–2 pm Los Pinos 7, phone number 415 152 6124 (masks required). Each would be a wonderful addition to your family. Our available dogs are here: https://www.spasanmiguel.org/adopt-me-dogs/ Our available cats are here: https://www.spasanmiguel.org/adopt-me-cats/ Our adoption fee is 600 pesos. For dogs, it includes sterilization, all current vaccinations, deworming, and the leptospirosis booster. For cats, the fee includes sterilization, all current vaccinations, deworming, and the feline leukemia vaccine and booster.