Redland Dog Sanctuary: A Haven of Hope for Miami-Dade’s Abandoned Dogs

Discover how Redland Dog Sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates Miami-Dade’s stray dogs.

In Miami-Dade County, the plight of stray and abandoned dogs is a pressing concern. Each year, thousands of dogs find themselves homeless, roaming the streets without hope. Amid this crisis, one sanctuary stands as a beacon of hope: Redland Dog Sanctuary. Newton Siquira Jr., the Sanctuary Director, has dedicated his life to rescuing and rehabilitating these vulnerable animals.

Newton’s journey into dog rescue began after a long career as a dog groomer. “When I retired, I started helping dogs here and there,” he recalls. The overwhelming need for assistance quickly turned his casual efforts into a professional mission. Redland Dog Sanctuary now cares for around 20% of the county’s stray dogs, providing a haven for those in need.

Challenges of the Redland Area
The sanctuary’s location between two national parks makes it a hotspot for abandoned dogs. The rural landscape allows dogs to survive and reproduce, worsening the problem. The sheer volume of stray dogs – around 37,000 annually, with only 12,000 finding homes – underscores the issue.

Unfortunately, many have behavioral issues or medical conditions that make them difficult to place in homes. Despite this, the sanctuary remains committed to giving every dog a chance and also offers free spay and neuter services to control the population.
Newton shares a recent story of two puppies found near the sanctuary – one tragically hit by a car, the other undergoing emergency surgery. Such incidents are common, yet Newton’s dedication never wavers. “I decided to give back to the community that helped me raise my family,” he says with conviction.

Adoption: A Path to a Better Life
Adoption is a critical aspect of the sanctuary’s mission. Newton stresses the importance of finding homes for these dogs, even if it means adjusting their stringent adoption criteria, saying “It’s cheaper to keep a dog in a home as a foster than in the shelter.” The sanctuary provides support to adopters, including food and training, to ensure a smooth transition.

Volunteers and donations are vital to the sanctuary’s operations. Newton calls for community support, not just in the form of money, but also donations of dog food, medications, and volunteer time. The sanctuary faces significant challenges, including scams and impostors on social media, which divert much-needed resources.

Health issues that disproportionately affect minorities

Despite these obstacles, Newton remains hopeful. The sanctuary’s work is a testament to the power of compassion and the difference one person can make. “We made this mess, and it’s our duty to help the dogs,” he asserts. Newton’s unwavering commitment to the dogs of Miami-Dade County serves as an inspiration and a call to action for all who care about animal welfare.
Whether you’re interested in adoption, volunteering, or donating, check out the Redland Dog Sanctuary website for more info.