The Dog-Go Project

Funkytown Shelter

The Dog-Go Project is a not-for-profit organization that rescues dogs off the street in Puebla, Mexico. It was established in 2019, though operated under a different name for several years prior. 

Since its inception, the organization has sent more than 2,400 dogs to Canada for a better life.

The Dog-Go Project is on the frontlines of the rescue efforts to keep street dogs safe. It’s not uncommon for the team to randomly pull over and help dogs who have been scared into a corner, have a broken paw, or suffer from mange or other ailments. They’re always prepared with food and leashes on hand—and if they’re unable to secure the dog initially, they return continuously to build trust and ensure the dogs aren’t suffering lives of abuse or ailment. They are the real, everyday heroes. 

In addition to saving street dogs, the Dog-Go Project's mission involves hosting community clinics. They have sterilized over 2,000 dogs through community-based spay and neuter clinics in partnership with Canadian rescues and veterinarian associations.

For over 20 years, Maru has been saving street dogs and caring for them at her shelter, Funkytown, on the outskirts of Puebla City, Mexico.

Over 4,000 dogs have come through Funkytown, and approximately 200 dogs call the shelter home each month.

Maru and her team work closely with local residents to help rescue, rehabilitate and re-home dogs in need. With a constant influx of dogs needing space in the shelter, they recently expanded their enclosures to accommodate even more animals.

With hundreds of residents at the shelter, the Funkytown team are faced with many challenges as they try to care for each dog with their own unique needs. Some animals have come from unthinkable circumstances and this may be the first place they receive love and care.

It’s here that they spend time healing, socializing, and receiving medical care before flying to their new homes in Canada. It’s here that they prepare for their new chapters in life!