Written by Nicole Brose
As we step into a new year, all of us at Guayabo Animal Rescue find ourselves reflecting on the extraordinary journey that 2025 brought. It was a year filled with challenges, triumphs, heartbreak, healing, and—above all—remarkable growth. Every day reminded us why we do this work: to create opportunity for people and pets to thrive, to ensure animals don’t suffer, and to make sure those who care have access to the resources they need. That is our “why,” and 2025 proved just how powerful that mission can be.
This past year, we saved more lives than ever before. Dozens and dozens and dozens of puppies were rescued from unimaginable conditions. Some came to us weak, scared, or fighting for their tiny lives. Many had every odd stacked against them. And yet—with proper care, love, nourishment, and medical support—they grew strong, healthy, and ready for the families who now adore them. These puppies are living reminders that compassion can rewrite a future.
We also saw dogs that others believed had no chance—the injured, the abandoned, the neglected—rise again. Dogs who arrived unable to walk are now running across our sanctuary fields. Dogs who came terrified now greet visitors with wagging tails. Their transformations felt miraculous, but really, they were made possible by persistent care, expertise, and the belief that every life deserves a chance.
Our impact extended to the people of our community as well. Some of the most meaningful moments of 2025 were quiet ones: offering a family a kind and gentle way to say goodbye to a beloved pet. Helping a struggling household feed their animals while they rebuilt their income, ensuring they didn’t have to face the heartbreak of surrendering the pets they loved so deeply. These acts of support matter just as much as every rescue—because animals and people thrive together, and when we lift one, we lift both.
Education also remained at the heart of everything we do. This year alone we reached hundreds of schoolchildren with humane education programs that teach empathy, compassion, and the importance of spay and neuter. These kids are the future of animal welfare in Costa Rica. Seeing their eyes light up with understanding, knowing they will grow up valuing the lives around them—that is the kind of long-term change that transforms entire communities.
2025 also brought incredible growth to our eco-tourism program. We welcomed hundreds of guests from around the world, each gaining a deeper understanding of Costa Rica’s wildlife, culture, and the challenges—and successes—we face in animal welfare. These guests stayed in our villas, supported our mission, interacted with our sanctuary animals, and left as lifelong advocates. We carry immense gratitude for every person who chose to spend part of their journey with us.
Now, as 2026 unfolds before us, we see a new year filled with possibility. A new chance to do even more. To save more lives. To reach more families. To educate more children. To grow stronger, wiser, and more impactful than ever before.
Thank you—for believing in us, supporting us, and walking this path with us. Together, we are creating a world where animals are protected, people are supported, and compassion always leads the way.
Here’s to another remarkable year!