This unique collection is the creation of Richard and Rebeca Payne who began “collecting and rescuing abandoned stray animals” 20 years ago. The majority of those “had been sick, brutalized, shot, mistreated and traumatized by their previous callous owners,” said Rebecca. Many are also in danger of extinction and are on the Mexican government list of endangered and protected species.
Rebeca also told us that, “over the years, several local veterinarians have donated their services and medicines. Without them,” she said, “this place would not be here today.” As any pet owner knows, such a large population must be fed daily and it is not cheap. The Paynes’ approximate monthly bills hover “about 10,000 pesos, of which 6,000 pesos are spent on fresh fruits. The remaining 4,000 pesos go for special food for cats, dogs, turtles, and sunflower and miscellaneous seeds,” she stated. “Our entire combined Social Security checks are eaten by our pets, so we do appreciate any monetary contribution from anyone,” she told us. Part of their plans have always been an educational center and school children are invited to visit; some 400 kids, many who had never seen such exotic creatures, came last March.
The Paynes have established a non-profit organization, El Centro Educacional Para La Proteccion de Animales (Education Center for the Protection of Animals), which is officially recognized by both the city and the state departments of ecology. Since ADIP last checked in with the Paynes, almost five years ago, it seems thier plans for an education center may finally be moving forward. In 2005, the city donated seven acres of land in the El Hujal district for the eventual resettlement of the animals. And only last December, the state gave the Paynes 102,000 pesos for construction materials, fences and cages—with the proviso that the materials must be purchased within 90 days—by the end of March 2007. The materials have been purchased and some building started. Once all is ready the city has promised to help with trucks to move the assorted menagerie to its new home. Still much work remains to be done and many more expenses to overcome but a little help has gotten them on their way. A profound devotion and compassion toward any animal are the hallmark traits of the Paynes who for 20 years have kept unselfishly giving of themselves every day toward fulfillment of their love for our animal friends. For more information, to set up educational visits, or to offer any assistance, please contact Rebeca Payne at rebeca_payne@hotmail.com or Tel. 755-554-3330.
