Pawsitivity, the Humane Society of Toledo District, Belize, is a community-driven initiative dedicated to improving animal health, reducing suffering, and promoting responsible pet ownership across southern Belize. As an affiliate of the Placencia Humane Society (PHS), Pawsitivity builds on decades of collaboration with Believe in Belize to expand access to veterinary care in underserved communities.

Launched in 2025, Pawsitivity is addressing a critical gap in animal welfare services across Punta Gorda and 32 surrounding villages - home to more than 40,000 residents. Many families lack access to affordable veterinary care, resulting in high rates of unspayed and unneutered animals, untreated illness, and growing populations of stray and abandoned pets.

Through mobile veterinary clinics, rescue support, and community education, Pawsitivity delivers essential care directly to those who need it most. Its programs are designed not only to treat animals, but to create lasting change by reducing overpopulation, preventing disease, and fostering a culture of responsible pet ownership.

Rotary Area of Focus
Community Economic Development

Location
Punta Gorda and 32 surrounding villages, Toledo District, Belize

What We’re Delivering:

• Mobile veterinary clinics providing spay/neuter services,vaccinations, and treatments
• Free or subsidized care for pet owners with limited financial means
• Direct support for local rescue organizations caring for abandoned and at-risk animals
• Disease prevention efforts including vaccinations and treatment of common conditions
• Community education on responsible pet ownership and animal welfare

Program Impact:

• 153 spay/neuter procedures completed since launch in 2025
• Treatment of multiple medical conditions including infections, parasites, and disease
• Support for two local rescue organizations caring for approximately 140 animals combined
• Services reaching over 40,000 residents across southern Belize

Program Cost:

• Approximately US $2,370 per clinic (covering veterinary services, supplies, and logistics)

In many parts of southern Belize, animals live without access to basic veterinary care, and communities face the consequences of overpopulation, disease, and abandonment. Unspayed pets often lead to unwanted litters, while free-roaming animals contribute to the spread of illness and suffering.

Pawsitivity is transforming this reality. By bringing veterinary services directly into communities, the program reduces animal suffering, improves public health, and helps stabilize animal populations over time. Each clinic not only treats animals in need, but also prevents future hardship through spay/neuter services and education.

The impact extends beyond individual animals. Healthier pet populations lead to safer, cleaner communities, while support for local rescue organizations ensures that the most vulnerable animals receive care and protection.

With continued support, Pawsitivity will expand its reach, increase the frequency of clinics, and strengthen its long-term mission: creating a more humane, healthy, and sustainable future for animals and communities across the Toledo District.