International Animal Refuge Secures Permanent Home in Los Realejos After 50 Years

The International Animal Refuge, which has spent 50 years caring for dogs, has finally secured its future by purchasing its facility in Los Realejos, near the La Cruz Santa reservoir. According to El Día, this move ends years of relocating between Puerto de la Cruz and La Orotava. Now, the organization can operate with more independence as it supports the entire Valley region, reaching as far as Santa Úrsula and La Matanza.

The refuge currently cares for 54 dogs, but the population changes constantly. In July alone, 40 new animals arrived while 30 were adopted, a cycle that staff describe as a delicate balancing act. A dedicated team of five long-term volunteers manages the daily operations, which include rescuing animals and providing essential veterinary care, such as deworming, hygiene, and quarantine.

The staff notes that pet abandonment remains a persistent social issue. Common reasons include owners moving house or changes in rental agreements, as well as a spike in abandonment during holiday seasons. Volunteers emphasize that neglect is not limited to any specific socioeconomic group; it occurs in both struggling and wealthy households alike.

Rising costs have made the work increasingly difficult. A recent increase in parasite cases, combined with stricter 2023 regulations on veterinary prescriptions, has driven up operating expenses. The refuge is also fighting against "silent abandonment"—cases where pets are kept at home but neglected, leading to behavioral issues that owners then use as an excuse to get rid of them.

Ultimately, the refuge sees itself as a temporary sanctuary. Its goal is not to keep animals long-term, but to act as a bridge to a permanent, loving home. The organization continues to advocate for responsible pet ownership, urging the public to view animals as family members rather than disposable items.