I recently returned from a trip to Guatemala. The strays tugged at my heart, like they always do. Thankfully most were in pretty good condition.
The life of a stray is hard, even when they are in decent shape.
When we travel, we can help. Little things make a big difference.
It can be VERY hard for them to get water and food. Most people think about food because they see thin strays but water is just as needed.
First some followed us all the way up the mountain (14k ft). They slept on the mtn with us at altitude. They never left us. I fed and watered those with food I packed for the climb. Then after the climb I spent some time walking around the city buying food and water at mini marts and feeding them. When I went to remote areas I brought extra food and water in my bag. It doesn’t matter what you feed them, anything is better than the nothing most have.
I didn’t see any cats on this trip. Just dogs. There were 2 very old ones living miles away from anything in a lava field. I gave them everything I had, hoping it would be enough to get them by until the next person shows up.
When you see them, even a small amount can be just enough for them to survive until their next lucky day.
I know everyone on this page has a big heart. Please plan ahead when going to areas with strays.
* If you eat out, take your leftovers with you. You can give them to a street stray. Even cats will eat take out when hungry. We don’t usually bring our leftovers with us when on holiday since we don’t have a kitchen. But bring them, save them, for a stray.
* If you are taking a backpack for the day, put some extra snacks and water. Bring a small cup to give water in.
* If you don’t have anything and see a stray, go buy something, anything in the store and give it to them.
They will be so thankful and it will help get them by one more day. One day at a time is how these strays survive. Be the reason they have one more day.
