Looking to support a reputable animal rescue organization? Amici Cannis is one of the Parsemus Foundation’s favorite animal welfare nonprofits! We love supporting them knowing our money goes so far in Ecuador and helps even more animals than it could here, and we think you will too.
U.S. veterinarians Heather and Philip Steyn were so moved and distressed by seeing the animals in need when visiting the mountain town Cotacachi, Ecuador that they founded Amici Cannis to help. After years of putting their blood, sweat, and tears into this project, they now also have local staff to make it sustainable.
They started with a focus on spay and neuter, since that addresses the root of the street dog welfare problem, but have gone far beyond that now, and achieved remarkable results. Amici Cannis has developed programs to support the care of pets in the region, support local communities, and operate sustainably. And we also like that our money goes so far in Ecuador.
Amici Cannis’ holistic mission is to protect and improve the lives of animals in Cotacachi and surrounding indigenous villages, in Ecuador. Their team provides high-quality veterinary services to stray dogs and cats, companion animals with owners, and those who cannot afford treatment. They combat abandonment and overpopulation, provide sterilization and emergency veterinary care, and teach children to respect and care for animals. Our colleagues who have gone to visit can see the results in happier, healthier dogs and a stronger bond between people and pets.
Now Amici Cannis would like to build a permanent veterinary hospital, instead of renting, and extend their services to neighboring villages. Once they do this, they can host more veterinary students from the U.S., making their program financially sustainable.
If you’re looking to make an outsize difference for animals and choose to join us in supporting Amici Cannis, we know you’ll be proud to be part of what they accomplish.
Learn more about Amici Cannis:
- Care for community dogs
- Veterinary care and humane education for indigenous communities
- Education programs for children and professional training for veterinary students
- Advocacy campaigns to protect animals
- Sustainable livelihoods for Andean indigenous community members
Amici Cannis is operated solely on philanthropic gifts. Your donation will make an outsized difference to animals in need in Ecuador.
