Encountering a stray cat or dog in Aruba can be a meaningful opportunity to make a difference in an animal’s life. Helping homeless animals is both rewarding and straightforward if you follow a few key steps.
Observe and Document the Animal
The first step is to carefully observe the stray and take clear photos. Not all animals roaming the streets are without owners, as some may be allowed to explore outdoors. Sharing these photos with local rescue organizations can help determine whether the animal is truly homeless or simply spending time outside.
Reach Out to Local Rescue Organizations
Aruba has several rescue groups that specialize in helping stray animals. Sharing information and images with these organizations can connect you with experienced volunteers who can assess the situation. Some of the main organizations include Crijojo Trappers Aruba, Animal Relief Foundation Aruba, Sgt Pepper’s Friends, Luna Foundation Aruba Inc, Animal Rights Aruba, Lost and Found Pets Aruba, and Cunucu Friends. These groups can provide guidance, support, and sometimes even directly assist in caring for or rehoming the animal.
Arrange Medical Care if Needed
If the stray appears injured or in poor health, contacting a local veterinarian is the next step. It is important to check whether the clinic can examine the animal and provide temporary care if required. For strays that are difficult to catch, organizations such as Crijojo Trappers Aruba have trained volunteers who can safely capture animals.
Medical care may include vaccinations, spaying or neutering, parasite treatments, and other necessary procedures. Spaying or neutering is particularly important for controlling the stray population and improving the animal’s long-term health. Rescue organizations can also assist with transportation or temporary foster care when additional support is needed.
Consider Adoption
Those interested in adopting a stray can make a significant impact on its life. After medical treatment, the animal may need temporary foster care or boarding until it is ready to travel. Adoption from Aruba typically requires a health certificate and an approved transporter.
Transporting pets to the United States is possible. Small animals, such as cats or puppies under 20 pounds including the carrier, may travel in the cabin with their owner. An airline-approved carrier is necessary and specific guidelines can be found on the airline’s website. Currently, American Airlines is the only carrier that allows dogs to fly as checked luggage from Aruba, while other airlines may permit cabin travel. Southwest Airlines does not allow pets on flights from Aruba. Flight costs will vary depending on the airline.
Making a Difference
Providing medical care or offering a forever home to a stray cat or dog in Aruba can change its life completely. Every effort to help contributes not only to the well-being of that individual animal but also to the larger community of homeless animals on the island.
