Many Sonoyta dogs go hungry. This sad reality is especially bad in winter. Therefore, I am reaching out to you as a “Rocky Pointer,” whether you personally identify as a dog lover or not. Consider this post as an introduction, invitation, or inspiration to help.
We have all heard the saying, “If you see something, say something.” So, because I have. Today I am. Please allow me to explain. If my writing doesn’t work, just watch the video at the end.
Sonoyta – Pass Through for Tourists
Puerto Peñasco also known as Rocky Point Mexico, is a popular beach attraction. It is a driving destination because of its proximity to the Southwest United States. Furthermore, only small, private planes are using the local Mar de Cortés International Airport.
On the other hand, the town of Sonoyta is really only known because it is a required pass-through destination. Arizonans and most other Americans making road trips to Rocky Point enter Mexico through the state of Sonora. For Arizona especially, it is often through the town of Sonoyta after crossing the U.S. – Mexico border.
Unfortunately, the best-known label of Sonoyta is corrupt police officers shaking visiting motorists. Despite not having modern or even functioning radar systems, there is a long history of tourists being stopped in town for speeding or other infractions. However, safety is not the focus. The goal is scaring drivers into paying cash bribes on the spot.
Image Impacts Sonoyta Dogs
I regularly drive between Arizona and Puerto Peñasco. Surprisingly, throughout Fall 2024 and this winter, I have rarely seen any local police when passing through Sonoyta. Most trips I don’t even see a single municipal police vehicle.
Still, the well-earned reputation for being untrustworthy prevails. Until further notice, it is wise to lock in on driving under the speed limit and coming to undeniable compliance of all traffic laws.
All of this has a negative impact on hungry Sonoyta dogs in winter. There is a ripple effect beyond tourists not wanting to stop in this border town with a significant population of hungry and not well cared for dogs.
Cooler temperatures mean less beachgoers. And less beachgoers mean less people passing through Sonoyta on the way to Rocky Point Mexico. And less dog lovers passing through this border town means less kind-hearted humans pulling over to feed visibly hungry dogs.
Pack of 10 Hungry Sonoyta Dogs
Yesterday, I was driving through Sonoyta enroute to my condo at the Sonoran Sun Resort on Sandy Beach. Knowing food is scarce for dogs in winter here, I brought food. I saw a few dogs roaming alone. However, those moments weren’t ideal.
Leaving town, a group of dogs crossed the highway up the hill in front of me. I pulled over to the shoulder. By the time I was getting out of my car they were on me.
While their bellies may have been empty, their thoughts were obviously fueled by hope and anticipation. They were eagerly waiting for food, any food.
You’ve got to laugh at yourself, right? I like to use plates when I feed dogs in Mexico so they don’t have to eat off the ground. Uh, not this time.
Food Gone in 60 Seconds
There would be no plates with these hungry Sonoyta dogs. My plans or commands meant nothing. Dogs were jumping on me, some up to my chest. However, there was no barking or biting, just anxiousness.
Competing for food? Yes. Sharing? No. Dog treats, bread. Gone. I found a bag of granola. Gone. My pretzels. Gone. Protein bars were snatched from my hands while unwrapping them. Gone.
During the frenzy, I counted 10 dogs. My only solid plan was keeping food in the car so every member of the group ate. 2 away from the action got lucky as the rest picked at granola.
The bottom line is this. Such a scene is possible on any winter trip to Puerto Peñasco. When going through Sonoyta, you won’t have to stray far from your car or even get out if you wish to feed hungry dogs.
