Our Story
Since 2005, Amigos de Animales Boquete has been at the heart of animal welfare in Boquete, Panama — building a healthier community one animal at a time.
Founded in 2005
Amigos de Animales Boquete was founded by Ruby McKenzie, Judy Sacco, and Irene Haines, modeled after SpayPanama. What started as a small initiative has grown into the leading spay/neuter program in the Chiriquí province.
In 2013-2014, the organization built its own facility in Alto Boquete — the Amigos de Animales Events Center located across from SuperCentro Ivan. This dedicated space allows the organization to host monthly clinics and community events year-round.
Over 30,000 animals have been sterilized since inception, and over 90% of clinic clients are now Panamanians — an enormous cultural shift that speaks to the trust and respect the organization has earned in the community.
Milestones
Founded
Ruby McKenzie, Judy Sacco & Irene Haines establish the organization, modeled after SpayPanama.
SPCA Grants Begin
$19,500 received from SPCA International since 2012 to support clinic operations.
Facility Built
Amigos de Animales Events Center constructed in Alto Boquete, giving the org a permanent home.
Mobile Van Launches
"Rolling Paws: The Mobile Fixer-Upper" begins reaching remote neighborhoods.
Pet Food Program
14,000+ lbs delivered in 2021; 17,000+ lbs in 2022. ~$1,300/month ongoing.
30,000th Animal
"Way" from Jaramillo becomes the 30,000th animal sterilized.
The Mobile Van
Affectionately nicknamed "Rolling Paws: The Mobile Fixer-Upper" (or the Neuter-Scooter!), our mobile van has been in operation since 2021.
The van allows us to reach remote and underserved neighborhoods around Boquete where families cannot easily travel to the main clinic. It brings the same quality care directly to the communities that need it most.
Our Sponsors
We’re grateful to our sponsors who make this work possible.
Annual Reports & Documents
Transparency matters. View our reports and financial documents.