Surfers for Strays began in early 2017 when founders Natalie Ritenour and Isabel Velasco rescued a mother dog and her puppies. That life-saving moment has grown into a wide-reaching rescue, care and education effort that now spans communities including Troncones, La Saladita, Zihuatanejo, and beyond.

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Surfers for Strays works to reduce the number of animals living in suffering by providing free spay and neuter campaigns, collaborating with local veterinarians to sterilize thousands of dogs and cats, and promoting humane treatment and responsible pet care. The organization rescues vulnerable animals, provides medical support and rehabilitation, and prepares dogs and cats for adoption through foster networks and community partnerships. Surfers for Strays maintains both a headquarters in Troncones and a rescue shelter in Zihuatanejo, where animals receive daily care, nourishment and a second chance at life.

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Education and community involvement are central to its mission. Volunteers—both local residents and visiting travelers—help feed, walk, train and socialize dogs, while outreach efforts encourage compassion and responsible animal stewardship among children and families. Through a growing international foster and adoption network, Surfers for Strays connects rescued animals with loving homes across Mexico, the United States, Canada and Europe.

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To learn more, volunteer, foster, adopt or donate:

Website: https://www.surfersforstrays.org
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/surfersforstrays/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SurfersforStrays/

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