Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - Many visiting Puerto Vallarta will notice that we have more than our fair share of abandoned dogs and cats living on the street. A lot of visitors ask me what they can do. Here are a few of the charities that are working to control this situation and get these wonderful animals adopted and off the street.

Visiting or moving to the area? Consider volunteering or supporting these great organizations financially. And if you can, adopt one of these great cats or dogs, you will be rewarded in so many ways. Trust me, I have two street dogs from here that bring my family so much love.

Colina Spay and Neuter Clinic: Colina is a free and by donation Spay & Neuter Clinic for Dogs and Cats, at 491 Venustiano Carranza between Naranjo and Jacarandas, in the Puerto Vallarta Romantic Zone (opposite Colin Meats). Open SATURDAYS only. Check out their Facebook page and give them a like or, better still, a donation to help them keep their work going.

SPCA PV: Their main focus is to rescue the abused, homeless animals from Puerto Vallarta's streets and place them in foster homes in both the United States and Canada until permanent homes are available. They are not supported by the government, corporations, foundations or businesses. They fully function on private donations. Visit their website at spcapv.com.

MexPup: Their mission to serve the best interests of the homeless animal community in Puerto Vallarta. MexPup helps people help dogs. They make a difference. Visit their website at mexpup.com.

Friends of PV Animals: This is a group of dedicated and passionate volunteers who are committed to the well-being of the homeless pets staying at the municipally run "pound" (Acopio). This No-Kill shelter is staffed by fabulous veterinarians and caretakers who work hard everyday to ensure each animal's basic needs are met. They rely strictly on donations to provide food and medicine to the animals in the care of the shelter. Visit their website at friendsofpvanimals.com.

Peace Animals: Their mission is to prevent the future suffering of animals. A mass free mobile spay/neuter program does the most good for the most animals. Towns and neighborhoods are cleaner, quieter, healthier and safer where there is no overpopulation of pets, and wildlife is at less risk for decimation. Mobile clinics take place primarily in the area of the Bay of Banderas (Puerto Vallarta, Mexico). Visit their website at peaceanimals.org.

Purr Project: PuRR Project is a no-kill cat shelter located just north of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, with approximately 200 resident felines. Situated on a ½ acre parcel of land, their adult population roams free within the lush green gardens allowing them to live in a ‘natural' environment un-caged. Visit their website at purrproject.com.