For 14 years, the association has become a haven of love, justice, and second chances for hundreds of dogs and cats who have been victims of animal abuse, overcoming challenges in its funding

By Gabriela Méndez

In 2011, on the streets of Los Proceres Boulevard in San Salvador, a paralyzed, malnourished dog covered in wounds was rescued after spending more than a year living on the street. Her name was Milly. What seemed like an isolated case became the beginning of one of the country’s most active animal rescue organizations: Asociación Milagros de Amor (“Miracles of Love Association”, in English).

Since then, rescuing abandoned animals stopped being an individual act and became the seed of a movement driven by compassion, resilience, and the unwavering belief that every life deserves to be cared for.

Where five little miracles started, today more than 500 dogs and cats have been cared for, many with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or emotional trauma. Currently, the shelter houses around 160 animals, including elderly, paraplegic, HIV-positive or feline leukemia cases. Each one receives veterinary care, balanced nutrition, medication, companionship, and, above all, a safe home, thanks to the care of her veterinarian, Dr. Marcela Urias, who is also the main founder and president of the Association.

“Here, we do not just rescue animals; we also restore their dignity. Every story we take in is a life rebuilt from pain with care, respect, and a lot of love. Our work goes beyond being a shelter, as we are a family that transforms abandonment into hope. We do this responsibly, without steady resources, but with the conviction that no living being deserves to suffer. We know not all will find a home, but everyone will know love before they leave”, said Dinorah Morales, one of the founders and currently the Vice President of the  Asociación Milagros de Amor, El Salvador.

The reality behind every bark

The story of Milagros de Amor is also the story of animal abandonment in El Salvador: dogs burned with acid, cats thrown from moving vehicles, entire litters left to fend for themselves, animals tied up for years without shelter or food, and many mutilated or suffering from untreated illnesses.

The Association is not just a shelter; it also plays an educational and transformative role. Through its social media and community activities, it promotes a culture of responsibility and empathy. “It pains us to see how animal abuse is normalized in many places. That’s why we also work on educational campaigns, so the next generation acts from awareness, not cruelty,” Morales said.

Running the shelter involves a significant financial burden; the monthly budget is around USD 3,500, covering rent, food, medical treatments, sterilizations, cleaning supplies, and support staff. To sustain its operations, the Association has implemented various fundraising mechanisms.

One of the most important is the monthly sponsorship program, from $5 to $60, invested in each Milagritos (“Little Miracles”, in English) during that period. The shelter is sustained thanks to the solidarity of people who believe in their cause.

Milagros de Amor promotes several initiatives to strengthen its impact, such as solidarity raffles, adoption fairs, low-cost spay/neuter days, and the promotion of volunteering, both in the shelter and in events, educational campaigns, and the management of social media. These activities not only raise funds but also raise awareness in society about animal protection and welfare. Through their digital platforms, they constantly promote a culture of respect for animals. The organization is firmly committed to curbing the overpopulation of stray dogs and cats, especially in rural communities where this problem is most critical.

The shelter’s work would not be possible without the support of dedicated volunteers and committed partners who believe in its mission. Several organizations have been essential in strengthening the shelter’s impact. Thanks to these alliances, the NGO in El Salvador has been able to expand its adoption campaigns, spay and neuter clinics, and specialized medical care, creating a support network that transforms lives.

An Opportunity to Heal

Adopting a dog or cat is more than just a process; it is a lifelong commitment. The association’s team carefully evaluates each potential adopter to ensure the animals find responsible, caring, and understanding homes. It is not simply about giving away an animal, but about creating healing bonds. Many adopters face their challenges and discover in these animals a source of comfort, companionship, and mutual healing. Adoption transforms not only the life of the rescued animal but also the life of the person who opens their heart.

Milly’s legacy

Milly lived 11 years after being rescued. She learned to get around with help, to trust again, and became a symbol of strength and kindness. Her gentle eyes are still remembered in the shelter, in every blanket shared, and every scar healed. Many call her “the first little miracle.” Her passing was not the end but the beginning of a growing network of love. Today, Milly lives on in every rescue story and every bark heard at the shelter.

How to help?

For more information, call +503 7709-9760, email adoptame.ma@gmail.com, or visit the website.