ABOUT US
PATA Samara Animal Rescue, a non-profit organization established in April 2019, is currently run by Sally Ella Horn and Emma Martinelli.
We work tirelessly to improve the lives of animals in the Samara community and surrounding areas. We do not receive government funding, nor are we paid to run the refuge, relying entirely on generous donations and volunteer support.
Our Mission and Approach
At PATA, we are driven by a deep-seated belief in the profound impact of kindness and collective action. Our primary goal is to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome abandoned, neglected, and sick animals. We strive to ensure every animal receives the care and love they deserve while educating the community on responsible pet ownership. Additionally, we are committed to helping families in need by providing essential support for their pets, ensuring that financial hardship does not lead to the abandonment or neglect of beloved animals.
What We Do
• Dog Refuge: We operate a sanctuary where abandoned and mistreated dogs are nursed back to health. Each dog receives medical treatment, proper nutrition, and socialization to prepare them for adoption.
• Foster Care for Cats: We organize foster homes for abandoned and sick cats and kittens, providing them with a safe and nurturing environment until they find permanent homes.
• Adoptions: Finding forever homes for our animals is a top priority. We work diligently to match pets with responsible and loving families.
• International Collaborations: We collaborate with rescue organizations in the US and Canada to fly our dogs to new homes, broadening their chances of finding the perfect family.
• Spay and Neuter Programs: To control the pet population and prevent unwanted litters, we subsidize low-cost spay and neuter surgeries for local pet owners.
• Trap-Neuter-Release: Our TNR program targets street cats, helping to humanely manage and reduce the feral cat population.
• Animal Welfare Advocacy: We report cases of neglect and abuse to the authorities and work on raising awareness about animal rights and proper care.
Community Engagement
PATA is deeply embedded in the community. We work closely with local residents to provide education on animal care, offer resources for pet owners, and promote the importance of spaying and neutering. Our volunteer programs engage community members in our mission, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and compassion towards animals.
How You Can Help
Your support is crucial to our mission. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word, every bit helps us continue our work. Donations can be made via various methods, including credit card, PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, cryptocurrency, or by mailing a check. For more detailed information on how to support PATA, please visit our donation page.
Join us in making a difference in the lives of animals in need. Together, we can create a community where every animal is treated with kindness and respect.
-
How does PATA function financially?PATA is an officially registered non profit here in Costa Rica. We do not receive any government or charity funding. We rely solely on donations and money we manage to raise with our local events.
-
Are you getting paid to run PATA?No we’re not. We’re dedicating our lives 24/7 but can’t afford to pay anyone, including ourselves.
-
Do you have cats at the refuge?No. Because we have 20+ dogs, cats are usually in foster homes while we supervise their recovery and adoption.
-
Can you rescue horses or wild life?No. We only rescue cats and dogs.
-
Why can’t I find PATA’s location?Sally lives at PATA. In order to protect her privacy (and avoid having cats and dogs dumped at the refuge) we only communicate this information to people who come to volunteer or adopt.
-
Do you do boarding?No we can’t. We have a very limited space and unfortunately almost always have a waiting list for new rescues needing our help.
-
Are there requirements to adopt a PATA pet?Yes there are. We want to make sure our rescues end up in a safe place and that you can provide them all the love, care and medical attention they need. Just fill out an adoption form and we’ll probably get in touch with you.
-
Can I adopt a dog if I don’t live in Samara or even in Costa Rica?Yes you can. If you’re the right fit, we’ll do everything we can to help with transport. Some of our dogs even flew to the US or Canada, thanks to amazing flight volunteers!
-
What if things don't work out with the pet I just adopted?All of our animals are rescues. They come with their own stories, and we usually ask that you try to spend a week with them, to give them time to adjust (it can take months for a fur friend to feel completely at home!). We want you and your new best friend to have the best experience and life ever. So we're always available to hear how things are going and maybe give you tips if you feel like you need some.