Saving Lives in the Andes: 57 Second Chances in Hualhuas

On May 30, 2026

Yesterday marked another profound milestone for the animals of the Peruvian Andes

Thanks to the invaluable support of our grant partners and friends at the Marchig Animal Welfare Trust, our team traveled to the community of Hualhuas in Huancayo, where we successfully sterilized 57 dogs in a single, high-impact day.

It was a day defined by profound emotion, overwhelming community gratitude, and a stark reminder of both how far we have come and the immense challenges that still lie ahead.

Sacrifices Born out of Love

From the early morning hours, the dedication of the Hualhuas community was on full display. We met local families who had traveled from miles away, carrying their beloved dogs in potato sacks, crates, and makeshift carriers — determined by any means necessary to secure a healthier future for them.

In these remote farming regions, economic hardships run deep. For many of these families, even contributing a symbolic 20 soles represents a massive financial sacrifice. Yet, moved by deep compassion and an understanding of our shared mission, families arrived bringing two, three, and sometimes four dogs. They chose sacrifice today to prevent the heartbreak of future suffering tomorrow.

Moments like these solidify exactly why we do this work. The bond between these families and their pets transcends poverty, and being able to provide them with safe, professional veterinary care is an absolute privilege.

The Reality on the Ground

While we celebrate the 57 lives changed inside our clinic walls, the campaign also brought us face-to-face with the harsher realities of the region. Near the edge of the community lies a massive local dumpsite where dozens of stray dogs fight daily for survival.

These street dogs have known a life of neglect; they are deeply fearful of humans and incredibly difficult to approach. It is a complex environment where rescue, trapping, and sterilization efforts require immense patience and strategy. Without intervention, the cycle continues relentlessly — puppies are born directly onto the harsh terrain, grow up on the streets, and reproduce.

Seeing them reminds us that our work in Huancayo is far from finished. But rather than feeling discouraged, it fuels our resolve.

We are entirely committed to helping them.

A Promise to Return

Hualhuas welcomed the Pichuberry team with open arms, and it was only through the seamless cooperation of community leaders, passionate local volunteers, and our tireless veterinary staff that this day was a success.

To the people of Hualhuas: we see how much need remains, and we promise to return. We will continue to stand by your side, step into the places most in need of help, and break the cycle of abandonment together.

Every single sterilization is a victory.

Together with the Marchig Animal Welfare Trust, we are steadily building a compassionate future — one with fewer homeless animals, and infinitely more hope for the pets and families who love them.

Moments of the Day