An invaluable task: the Cordoban foundation that rescues and cares for abused dogs

The Fundación Proyecto Animal carries out essential work in Córdoba by rescuing and rehabilitating dogs that are victims of abuse, abandonment, and natural disasters. It also intervenes in traffic accidents, floods, and fires, caring not only for dogs but also for horses and cats in critical condition. With each intervention, this organization demonstrates a sustained commitment to the welfare and defense of animal rights.

Its president, Maximiliano Canziani, highlighted the importance of the environment in achieving effective emotional recovery for rescued animals. The most frightened or aggressive dogs quickly integrate into a balanced pack, which accelerates adaptation. "Even the most fearful or aggressive ones adapt very quickly to the pack, which welcomes them very well and helps to greatly accelerate the emotional recovery processes, above all."

In many cases, physical recovery also requires complex medical attention, which the foundation covers with its own resources. Veterinary traumatologists and an ethologist specialized in behavior work with severe cases and accompany the treatments. When animals are adopted, a personalized and responsible follow-up is carried out, which can extend throughout their lives.

Promoting education and care as a long-term policy

To stop abandonment and prevent new cases of abuse, the foundation relies on spaying/neutering and education as central tools. Every week, they offer workshops in schools, raising awareness from an early age about animal care. In addition, they plan to incorporate a mobile surgical unit to perform spaying/neutering in neighborhoods where access is more limited.

The challenges on this path are not few, and one of the main ones is the situation of court-ordered dogs. Until the courts formally authorize it, those animals can't be spayed/neutered unless there is a veterinary emergency. There is also concern about the operation of many breeding facilities, which, according to Canziani, are in unsanitary conditions, with overcrowded and sick animals.

The foundation insists that the Sarmiento Law is positive but needs real enforcement and tougher penalties. "If we have a good law that is not enforced, it's useless," said Canziani, referring to the gap that exists between the regulation and its enforcement. The conviction with which they act thus becomes a call to strengthen the legal framework and its execution.

Work with prosecutors and rescues in contexts of violence

Direct intervention in legal cases is an essential part of the foundation's actions. Proyecto Animal works in coordination with some judicial units, such as UJ 22, which, according to Canziani, "pay attention to abuse," unlike others that dismiss complaints. This coordinated work has enabled effective operations and rescues in record time.

One of the most recent cases was that of "Wanda" and "China," two female dogs beaten in Villa El Bordo, whose situation went viral on social media. "When they gave me a rough idea of where it was, I went and entered the neighborhood alone to see which house it was and take a front photo for the prosecutor's office," Canziani recounted. The complaint led to an immediate raid that saved the dogs.

This type of action shows genuine commitment to animals and a courage that often involves personal risks. The foundation doesn't limit itself to reporting, but takes an active role, investigating and acting together with the courts. That level of involvement is what makes the difference in urgent situations.

Sustaining collective work with community support

For a year now, the foundation has been financially sustained thanks to the voluntary contributions of committed individuals. "Before, I paid for everything myself, until we obtained legal status," explained Canziani, emphasizing that now all financial movement is audited and under control. 95% of the funding comes from the community, which demonstrates social support.

Currently, they have 50 dogs under their care: some are at the headquarters, others in foster homes, and several in volunteers' houses. Temporary homes are chosen responsibly, based on a form that considers both space and available time. That system ensures that each dog is in an environment suited to its needs.

Every two months, they open their doors to the community so people can visit the place, collaborate, or adopt. "We invite anyone who is not part of the foundation to see our work," says Canziani about those events. Donations can include food, medication, leashes, or a monthly contribution as a sponsor of a dog.

Many ways to help animal rescuers

The foundation holds open events every two months so the community can learn about its work up close. People can help with tasks such as walks, play, or maintenance. It is also an opportunity to meet dogs available for adoption and join as a volunteer.

They also accept donations of food, medication, collars, clothing, or any useful supplies for daily care. They have a monthly sponsorship system that allows people to collaborate with the amount they choose. To join, you can write to Instagram @fundacionproyectoanimal and offer whatever help you wish.