The Darker Side of Paradise

Welcome to the beautiful island of Gran Canaria where there is 365 days of sunshine, beautiful tropical beaches, friendly locals, and cheap beer. Millions of people flock here every year, spend time in the resorts, soak up too much sun and even more sangria. They go home, in awe of the island and everything it has to offer, not knowing that there is a real dark side to this slice of paradise.

You see, around every corner here is someone willing to hurt, abuse and kill animals. At this time of year every bag and box is likely to have puppies and kittens in, destined to be crushed alive by the bin men. I still cannot get my head around a human being that can bag a living creature up, and toss them in the bin.

Over the years I have seen so many different displays of animal cruelty, and it amazes me that people think it doesn't happen here. The truth is the government, and tourist boards don't want you to see it. God forbid a tourist would see a starving dog.

The reality is open your eyes, leave resort, and you will see the pain and suffering that many of us have to see every day. The thousands of puppies and kittens born to die on the streets. The older dogs chained, beaten and often starved.

So, you may ask why do I stay on this island surrounded with hurt and pain every day. Well that is simple, 365 days of sunshine, cheap beer, and the glimmer of hope that slowly we are changing things for the better. One day the locals will understand that sterilization is essential, and until that day I will continue to do what I do....... oh which includes picking up carrier bags full of kittens on the way home... four more mouths to feed....