In the heart of Colombia’s Coffee Axis, there is a place where every wagging tail and every purr whispers a story of resilience
By Paula Bedoya
Refugio Huellas de Amor (“Love Footprints Shelter”, in English), located in Pereira, the main city of Colombia’s Coffee Axis, is a non-profit organization born from a deep commitment to animal welfare and has become a true sanctuary for hundreds of street animals seeking a second chance.
Behind each saved life, a dedicated team of veterinarians and volunteers, united by their passion for animals, sustains this project through their efforts. Since its inception in 2010, they have rescued 1,512 dogs and cats, found homes for 700 and provided medical care and sterilization to more than 1,550 animals.
Stories that leave their mark and transform lives
Many of these animals had been sentenced to sacrifice due to their illnesses or disabilities, destined to wander the streets or continue being victims of abuse at the hands of their owners. However, this team’s commitment has changed these destinies, demonstrating that with love, it is possible to heal and provide a different future for those who have been forgotten.
“We know we cannot save all the animals in the world, but we can change the world for each animal we rescue. When there’s a will, there’s always a way!”, emphasizes Manuela Rodríguez, veterinarian and founder of this shelter. This phrase gathers the essence of Huellas de Amor: each rescued life is a victory, each adoption a hope, and each bit of help, however small it may seem, makes a monumental difference.
A comprehensive mission: love in every step
Huellas de Amor‘s work has two fundamental areas. The main focus is animal rescue and care. Currently, the shelter is home to more than 130 animals, including dogs and cats, each one with a unique story of resilience. They receive veterinary care, adequate nutrition, and, most importantly, a safe environment full of affection that allows them to recover physically and emotionally.
Finding a home for the “huelleritos” (“little paw prints” in English, as they affectionately call the animals in the shelter) is another key pillar of their work in pursuit of animal welfare. But these are responsible and permanent adoptions. Through a rigorous selection process, they seek to guarantee that each animal finds a loving and committed family that will provide them with the care they deserve for the rest of their lives.
Building community is helping: beyond the shelter
However, maintaining a shelter of this magnitude involves much more than love for animals; resources, infrastructure, food, medications, veterinary care, time, and commitment are necessary. That’s why society’s support is fundamental.
Thus, the Huellas de Amor team has implemented the Lifeline Plan, a crucial initiative that invites people to sponsor a specific animal, contributing directly to their food and health expenses. They also accept donations of supplies and financial resources to guarantee the welfare of all the shelter’s animals.
Similarly, there are Solidarity Products, an entrepreneurial venture of accessories such as t-shirts, mugs, and notebooks with designs created for pet lovers. Each purchase represents direct help, as 100% of the profits go toward the maintenance and care of the animals.
This shelter’s dedication not only saves lives; it restores faith in humanity and demonstrates that, with passion and effort, bridges of compassion can be built in a world that desperately needs them.Learn more about Huellas de Amor‘s work and discover how to help in their animal protection mission through their website or Instagram profile.
