A Langley-based animal rescue group is stepping up to save puppies from harsh street conditions in Mexico. Just Four Paws recently brought three young puppies from Jalisco, Mexico, to British Columbia for adoption.
The puppies—named Alvin, Simon, and Theodore after the popular movie Alvin and the Chipmunks—were found alone and vulnerable in San Juan Cosalá, a small town in Mexico. Nikki DeSousa, founder of Just Four Paws, said the first priority is making sure the puppies are healthy.
Before arriving in Canada, the puppies must get all their shots, be wormed, vaccinated for rabies, and neutered. Each one will have special veterinary tests called SNAP tests to check for common diseases like canine parvovirus and distemper, which often affect street dogs in that area.
The puppies will also get full vet exams, vaccines, and treatments to prevent fleas and ticks. Only after completing all these steps can they legally be brought into Canada.
The puppies are not available for adoption yet, but DeSousa said their profiles will be shared soon. Interested adopters can apply early if they agree to get a permit for bringing the puppies into Canada before the usual age for neutering, allowing for pre-neuter adoption.
Since 2020, Just Four Paws has rescued over 2,700 animals, including dogs, cats, and even goats, across Canada, the United States, and Mexico. This work is supported by a strong volunteer network. The organization is now focusing more on Mexico, especially a 13-town area in Jalisco where no rescue shelter exists. DeSousa hopes to share positive updates by the end of August.
Though rewarding, the rescue work is emotionally challenging. “Abuse, neglect, and homeless dogs are hard on the heart,” DeSousa said. “We can only do so much and help when we can.”
The puppies’ journey from Mexico to safe homes will be shared on Just Four Paws’ Instagram and Facebook pages as they prepare to find loving families in the coming weeks.
