How it all began

Paws4Survival was founded in August of 2015.

In July of 2014, our founder Nicole made her first trip to Puerto Rico. Her husband grew up in the small town of Arroyo, where the stray population is vast. The thought of all the innocent animals being left with nothing weighed heavy on Nicoles heart. What started as a family vacation, quickly turned into a rescue mission. With the help of another rescue organization, she was able to rescue three satos (spanish for dogs) from Playa Chiropolis.

After fostering and advocating though another rescue, she decided it was time to venture out on her own. With that, Paws4Survival was founded.

The dog who started it all

Auntie

While on vacation in Puerto Rico, Nicole’s sister in law brought her to the beach to show her where the whole family went growing up. When pulling into Playa Chiropolis, a small tan dog ran up to the car wagging her tail, so happy to see them.

Ensuring their safety

What they saw

To Nicole and her daughter’s surprise there was a small green plastic tub under a tree & inside was a mom with her 4 babies. The tears began to flow & the thought of leaving them behind consumed Nicole’s mind. Within just a few minutes, she was determined not to leave the island without them safe.

Origin of her Name

Locals called her Titi

The assumption was that she was from the mom’s previous litter or that she was her sister. Hence the name Auntie.

Next Steps

Nicole got help

With the help of an established organization on the island, Nicole was able to get commitment to bring them to a veterinary office. The next time they traveled back to the beach, there was only one baby left out of the 4. People had stolen 3 from the mom, not knowing they surely couldn’t survive without their mother. Nicole was able to get Auntie with her sister (or mom) and baby and got them the heck out of there.

After

Their forever

After a few months Auntie flew to NY and was picked up by Nicole. The mom Nella & her pup, Della, were adopted as a pair to a wonderful family by the organization who initially assisted with the rescue.

Now

Years later

Auntie is now about 12 years old, has been a foster sister to thousands of dogs and enjoys caring for puppies when they are in the house. She loves to cuddle in bed, be the boss and is the princess of her castle.

Without her tail wagging happy self begging to be rescued, Paws4survival would never be.