Cuchara, Colorado — A new beacon of hope for animals has emerged in the heart of Southern Colorado with the formation of the Wahatoya Animal Advocacy Group (WAAG). Dedicated to the welfare of animals in Cuchara, La Veta, Walsenburg, and surrounding areas, WAAG is a 501(c)(3) organization with a mission rooted in compassion: Every Creature Counts.
Acknowledging the financial constraints faced by local communities and the challenges affecting animal welfare, WAAG will prioritize rescue efforts, access to veterinary care, fostering programs, and community education to ensure compassionate and sustainable solutions for animals in need.
A National Perspective: Shelter Animals Count 2023 Report
WAAG’s mission aligns with critical trends outlined by Shelter Animals Count. In 2023:
- 6.5 million cats and dogs entered shelters and rescues across the U.S., marking slight increases from prior years.
- 4.8 million animals found their forever homes, with adoption rates steadily improving from 56% in 2019 to 61% in 2023.
- Despite these positive trends, 690,000 animals were euthanized—a concerning 15% increase compared to 2022.
Dogs saw a troubling rise in non-live outcomes, with a 24% increase in 2023 compared to the previous year. However, cat adoptions continue to rise, with 34,000 more cats adopted in 2023 than in 2022 and 319,000 more than in 2019.
A Local Mission: Meeting the Challenge
WAAG steps in to address local challenges by providing a much-needed safety net for animals in the Wayatoya region. Services will include:
- Rescue and placement for at-risk animals.
- Spay/neuter programs to reduce overpopulation.
- Community education to build awareness around responsible pet ownership and wildlife coexistence.
WAAG’s founding Board emphasizes the need for immediate action: “As a community, we can make a difference in the lives of the animals who share our space. Every animal deserves love, care, and a second chance. The Wahatoya Animal Advocacy Group is here to provide that opportunity.”
Get Involved
WAAG invites the community to join its mission through donations, volunteering, fostering, and adopting animals in need. Together, we can create a brighter future for the animals of Southern Colorado.
For more information or to support WAAG’s efforts, visit www.WAAGColorado.org or contact wahatoyaanimaladvocacygroup@gmail.com.
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About Wahatoya Animal Advocacy Group:
Wahatoya Animal Advocacy Group (WAAG) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the welfare of animals in Cuchara, La Veta, Walsenburg, and surrounding areas. Guided by the belief that Every Creature Counts, WAAG strives to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals while educating the community on compassionate care and sustainable practices.
