sterilization & wellness
sterilization in the Galápagos: humane, ethical, effective
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​Sterilization—along with education and legislation is one of our three core strategies to humanely manage dog and cat populations in the Galápagos. These introduced species can threaten vulnerable endemic wildlife: one unaltered female dog can spark tens of thousands of descendants in a decade; cats multiply even faster, putting ground-nesting birds, marine iguanas, and other species (which evolved without mammalian predators) at risk. By preventing unwanted litters before they exist, surgical sterilization sharply reduces the number of potential predators moving into wild areas. It also curbs roaming and aggression, lowers bite risk, and helps block the spread of parvo, distemper, leptospirosis, and other diseases protecting wildlife and the pets who share island homes.
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Why compassion matters—and why it works better. The Galápagos once relied on poisoning and culling campaigns. They were painful for animals, traumatic for communities, and short-lived: populations rebounded because the underlying reproduction cycle never stopped (“vacuum effect”). Choosing sterilization is an ethical commitment to end suffering rather than kill our way out of a problem. Families are far more willing to participate in a program that protects their animals; that trust lets veterinarians reach the high coverage levels (70%+) needed to actually stabilize or reduce populations. Fewer unwanted litters means fewer starving, sick, or abandoned animals; less conflict with wildlife managers; and stronger bonds between people and their pets. Compassionate control has proven more effective, more cost-efficient over time, and fully aligned with the conservation values that make the Galápagos a world treasure.
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And the results have never been better. The 2024 archipelago-wide pet census shows sterilization coverage at Isabela — 80 % of dogs, 80 % of cats; San Cristóbal — 72 % of dogs, 65 % of cats; Santa Cruz — 67 % of dogs. These are the highest rates ever recorded, hard evidence that compassionate, community-driven strategies are working.
wellness clinics
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Our wellness clinics provide vital veterinary care for animals who often have little or no access to medical services. From vaccines and parasite control to treatment for infections and chronic conditions, we meet pets and street animals where they are — with compassion and expert care.
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These clinics are also an opportunity to educate families about responsible companionship and the connection between animal health and environmental well-being. We believe that healthy animals build healthier communities, and we’re proud to be part of a movement that honors life in all its forms across the Galápagos.
