About Us:

When I first came to Ajijic 10 years ago, my plan was to spend lazy days in the sun. But animal lover that I am, my heart ached every time I left the sanctuary behind the wall surrounding my home, and I could not accept the suffering of animals as part of the scenery. There are always opportunities to help and so I joined the then Humane Society, which was located across the street from the present Animal Shelter. Even though the quarters were cramped, sometimes the food a little short, the animals that found their way to the little building on the highway were the lucky ones, for they were loved and cared for and no longer had to fear the coming day. Then due to donations, both large and small, and the generosity of the Lakeside Community, the Ranch was built on land leased to us by a wonderful gentleman from Chapala who knows that animals play an important part in society. Thus the Ranch was and still is a COMMUNITY PROJECT.

I remember the day when a caravan of caring volunteers moved the dogs to their new dwellings in the country and I still wonder how to describe the feelings of happiness which we all experienced: tightness in the chest - hearts that overflowed - smiles and tears? But one thing I know how to describe, and will never forget, is the reaction of the shelter dogs. Some of them, resigned to their fate, followed quietly and it brought to mind sheep obediently being led to slaughter; others, trusting and so eager to love, zealously pulled on their leashes ready to go wherever a human hand would take them. Yet others, robbed of the trust in the human race, rebelled and fought and were unwilling to give up their little piece of space, which to them represented safety and hope. Those were the ones who brought tears to the eyes of the volunteers and those are the ones we remember. Some of these dogs never knew the pleasure of running to their heart's content, the feeling of soil under their feet instead of concrete slabs, or have trees and space around them which almost let them feel free. Seeing their eyes aglow and their tails held high, one did not need to be Dr. Dolittle to understand the happiness all of them showed.

In September 2001 the LAKESIDE Spay & Neuter Center, A.C. was formed and took over management of the Ranch. Since its existence, the organization has altered thousands of animals. Considering that one female dog and her offspring can produce 67,000 dogs in 5 years (cats are even more prolific) the Lakeside Spay & Neuter Center, A.C. has made a difference.

Without your help it could not have been done. We would like to thank the community for their support, the gift givers and the volunteers who give of their time.

Thank you to all those who realize that monetary wealth cannot compare to the wealth of a giving soul. We could not survive without your help.

Thank You!

Gudrun Jones
CO-Founder and President of the Lakeside Spay & Neuter Center, A.C.