37. Rescuing a Dog or Cat in Panama: A Rewarding Responsibility
Even if you think you won't be rescuing a dog or cat in Panamá, you'll probably be adopting a dog or cat in Panamá. 😆 It's HARD to resist once you live in for awhile and you see how much you are needed.
Adopting a pet is an incredibly rewarding experience and, in Panamá, rescuing a dog or cat brings its own special set of challenges and joys.
The country has made strides in animal welfare, but there’s still a long way to go, particularly in rural areas. If you’re considering adopt a furry child, this blog will educate you on what you need to know to help ensure the most success to this special event.
Start with Fostering: A Trial Run for You & the Pet
Before jumping into adoption, consider fostering to give yourself a chance to see if taking on a pet is truly right for you and if the animal is a good fit for your home and lifestyle.
I fostered a dog for several months before she found her forever family. Although I grew to love her, my intuition was telling me that we weren’t the perfect match. Fostering saved both of us from a long-term situation that might not have worked out.
If you’re unsure about adopting, fostering is a great way to test the waters while making a positive impact.
Baby vs. Adult: Which is Right for You?
It’s tempting to assume a puppy or kitten is the best choice, but think carefully about your needs and capabilities. Puppies and kittens are adorable, but they require significantly more time, energy, and training. Adult animals, on the other hand, often come with a calmer demeanor and may already be house-trained.
Take time to reflect on your lifestyle, schedule, surroundings, and patience level before deciding which age group is the best fit for you.
A Commitment Beyond Borders
Rescuing a pet is a serious, lifelong commitment—and that commitment doesn’t end at Panama’s borders. If you eventually leave Panama, your baby needs to go with you!
Relocating a pet internationally can be expensive, particularly if you use a pet relocation service (highly recommended as Panamá is extremely bureaucratic and "service challenged"). Keep in mind the potential costs and logistics involved in ensuring your newest family member travels safely with you.
Understanding Panama’s Animal Welfare Landscape
Panama’s Ley 70 establishes important animal protection laws, including access to food and water, proper identification, and humane treatment. While enforcement is stronger in urban areas, like Panama City, rural regions often lag behind.
Tragically, some individuals resort to poisoning street dogs to handle overpopulation.
In smaller towns, it’s common to see dogs roaming freely. Fenced yards and leashes aren't really a thing here. Many owned dogs are allowed to wander, which makes it more challenging to identify truly homeless animals.
To add to the challenge, in general, animals aren't viewed as family members here, so even owned dogs can be underfed and struggle with health issues.
These heartbreaking realities are why non-profit organizations that work tirelessly to improve animal welfare through sterilization, fostering, and education are so crucial here.
Meet Some of Panama’s Animal Welfare Heroes
Pro-Animales Santeños: Founded in 2021, this organization focuses on finding foster homes, providing medical care, and rehabilitating sick, injured, and abandoned animals. To date, they’ve helped over 300 animals. Their work is supported by local volunteers and fundraising efforts.
SpayPanama Pedasi: An affiliate of SpayPanama since 2017, this group has sterilized over 3,000 animals in the Pedasí district. They offer low-cost or free sterilization clinics, sono one is turned away due to financial constraints.
Dog Camp Boquete: Based in Boquete, this large-scale rescue houses over 80 dogs on a farm, offering them safety and care while they wait for adoption.
Veterinary Care in Panama
The good news is that Panamá is experiencing a boom in quality veterinary care. Vaccinations, healthcare, and premium pet food are becoming more widely available and are much more affordable than in the U.S. or Canada.
Our rescue pup came to us with a chronic case of tick fever. In his first year, we had many trips to the vet and lots of prescribed meds. At one point, he needed a 3 day hospital stay due to a tough episode. During his stay, he had lab work done, round-the-clock care, an IV, and numerous shots ; our total bill was only about $200!
How You Can Help
- Foster: Foster homes are desperately needed for animals waiting for adoption.
- Adopt: If you’re ready for a lifelong commitment, adopt from a local rescue organization.
- Donate: Your donations to groups like Pro-Animales Santeños and SpayPanama help fund their critical work.
- Volunteer: Get involved by assisting at clinics or helping with rescue efforts.
My Personal Rescue Story
Every rescue story is unique, and mine starts on the beautiful beaches of Pedasí, where my baby, Buster "Boo Boo" Brown, was found as a young puppy. THANK GOD a kind-hearted dog lover spotted him and immediately took action, bringing him home and recruiting her neighbors to foster him.
During his time with his foster parents, Buster was given the best possible start in life. He was socialized—learning to get along with both people and other dogs—and got basic training (including potty training!). Most importantly, he was showered with love, which helped shape his incredible personality.
When we met Buster, it was love at first sight. Not only was he absolutely gorgeous, but his personality was equally remarkable. He was neither timid nor aggressive, had just the right energy, and was clearly a lover not a fighter. Plus, he was the perfect size...not too small, not too big. With my animal trainer ex preferring male dogs, Buster checked every single box so we brought him home.
His immune system finally kicked in and his tick fever has been in solid remission for a long time now.
The Next Chapter for Buster
As I prepare to return to the U.S. in late February, plans are already in place for Buster’s big move to San Diego. My ex, along with Pets Go Global, will make sure he arrives safely at the end of March to begin his next chapter.
Besides me, he has two "nephews" (my daughter's dogs) waiting for him. There will be adjustments—like getting used to a leash, concrete sidewalks, and "freezing" non-tropical temperatures—but the adventures we will have together will more than make up for them! 🐾
Come follow our many adventures in San Diego and on the road on Instagram ~ Buster n Me 🐶❤️
A Life-Changing Decision
Rescuing a dog or cat in Panama isn’t just about bringing a pet into your home—it’s about giving an animal a second chance and committing to their care for life. By starting with fostering, carefully choosing the right match, and understanding the responsibilities involved, you can create a bond that’s fulfilling for both you and your new baby.
Whether you’re ready to adopt or simply want to support local rescue efforts, every step you take helps create a better future for Panama’s animals. Together, we can make a difference—one wag or purr at a time!
I'm sorry that we've already snagged the best dog in Panama, but don’t worry—there are plenty of other amazing animals still waiting for their forever homes!
