Edgardo Ziga embarks on an extraordinary odyssey across Mexico astride a cargo trike, a modern-day quest to rescue forsaken and abandoned dogs while simultaneously kindling awareness about the maltreatment these sentient beings endure.
Since the initiation of his captivating journey on July 17, 2013, Ziga has traversed more than half the nation’s expanse, scouring streets and highways for abandoned dogs left to wander.
Draped in garments bestowed upon him by compassionate individuals encountered on his sojourn, he propels forward ceaselessly, both day and night, escorted by a pack of 14 dogs who have become his steadfast companions. His mission: to offer these animals a life beyond the strife, where they are too frequently subjected to the cruelties or indifference of humans.
For 48-year-old Edgardo, a native of Nayarit in western Mexico, this expedition represents both sacrifice and a resonant message to society at large.
“Dogs from all across Mexico join me, dogs that no one adopts, dogs that are lingering (on the street),” he confides to Efe, emphasizing the transformative role these animals play in educating others about nobility and trust.
Since embarking on his quest, this impassioned animal activist has orchestrated the rescue of over 400 dogs across various states, including Nayarit, Sinaloa, Sonora, Baja California, Baja California Sur, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo León, Tamaulipas, Veracruz, Campeche, Tabasco, Yucatan, and Quintana Roo.
Dubbed the “dog guy,” Edgardo loads his tricycle with essentials like food, drink, shoes, and clothes, a conspicuous spectacle that captivates passers-by, weathering all conditions, be it rain or sun. The tricycle also carries an array of remedies to tend to his noble companions.
Currently navigating through Chiapas’ Soconusco region, specifically Huixtla and Tapachula, Edgardo plans to expand his “dog rescue squad” by adopting and caring for more dogs, enhancing their quality of life.
In his words, his journey is a “quest to awaken people’s consciousness.” He seeks acknowledgment for the boundless contributions these devoted animals make to human lives.
Beyond rescuing dogs, Edgardo operates as a mediator, negotiating the release of some of his rescued comrades. “Dogs are full of love and protection; that is why we must also take care of them,” he ardently asserts.
His trek to the southern reaches of the country, where warm receptions await, has been a challenging endeavor. The route will soon lead him along the Chiapas coast before traversing numerous provinces in the southern states of Oaxaca and Guerrero.
Describing his endeavor as a comprehensive project covering the entirety of Mexico, Edgardo elucidates that animal cruelty is rampant in at least 15 Mexican states, underscoring the urgency of fostering a culture of respect and awareness to prevent instances of abuse.
