How It All Began: A Journey of Compassion for Aruba’s Dogs
By Mercedes de Bruyn, Founder
It all started one night in September 2015. At 11 PM, we rescued our neighbors’ dogs from the kill cage in Aruba—a moment that changed everything. That same night, Rescue Dogs Aruba was born. We opened a Facebook page to share their story, not realizing the powerful journey ahead.
Through that experience, we came to know the incredible spirit of the Aruban Cunucu Dogs. These dogs are more than survivors—they are strong, loyal, caring, and incredibly resilient. Despite the odds, despite disease, neglect, and hardship, they somehow keep fighting. Yes, we faced heartbreak and loss, but we also had many victories. With the support of kind-hearted people, we managed to rescue and rehome 17 dogs.
Along the way, we realized we weren’t alone. Aruba is home to many passionate individuals and organizations, both local and international, who work tirelessly to help animals. Volunteers, foundations, even government departments—each fighting their own battle, all driven by love for animals. And we learned just how much this cause is a 24/7 commitment.
With this in mind, we founded the United Dogs Aruba Foundation in January 2016. Our goal: to bring all these wonderful efforts together. We believe deeply that working together is the only way to create lasting change for Aruba’s dogs and cats.
We launched our first MASH-style spay and neuter campaigns in 2017, and continued in 2018 and 2019, successfully sterilizing nearly 1,000 animals. Then came the COVID-19 pandemic, which put everything on hold in 2020 and 2021.
But 2022 brought a new beginning: the creation of AWAA – Animal Welfare Alliance Aruba. Formed by the three founding organizations—Crijojo Trappers, Sgt. Pepper’s Friends, and United Dogs Aruba—AWAA was a response to a growing crisis: too many roaming, suffering animals. It was clear that one-time campaigns were not enough. We needed a permanent, year-round solution.
So we built one.
Fast forward to 2025, and AWAA is in its third year of continuous action. In 2023 and 2024 alone, we spayed and neutered 4,200 animals. This year, our goal is even bigger:
5,000 dogs and cats helped. 5,000 lives changed.
To everyone who has been part of this journey—thank you. And to those who want to help—we welcome you with open arms. Whether you’re local or international, a vet or volunteer, a student or supporter, your help matters.
Email us. Join us. Let’s build a better future—together.
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.