Protecting pets, wildlife, and community health in Tortuguero

Introduction to the Metaproblem

Tortuguero, one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse regions, faces a critical lack of access to veterinary care. With the nearest clinic nearly three hours away by boat and taxi, costing over $100, pets and wildlife go untreated. This leads to disease outbreaks, unmanaged overpopulation of dogs, and serious harm to endangered species including sea turtles and their nests.

Core Problem in the Bioregion

The bioregion suffers from an overpopulation of 3,000+ stray and unvaccinated dogs, repeated outbreaks of deadly diseases like distemper, and frequent attacks on wildlife. Injured animals domestic and wild have nowhere to go for treatment. This crisis threatens community wellbeing, animal welfare, and the fragile ecological balance of Tortuguero National Park.

Proposed Solution

Our solution is to establish the first fully equipped veterinary clinic in Tortuguero, staffed by a full-time veterinarian. The clinic will offer affordable or free pet care, emergency support, sterilizations, vaccinations, wildlife treatment, and long-term ecological protection. The long-term vision is to evolve into a veterinary teaching hospital for young vets and international volunteers.

What Makes This Project Unique

This will be the only clinic in the region with a dual focus: domestic animals and endangered wildlife. It directly supports sea turtle conservation by reducing dog attacks, stops disease spread through vaccination programs, and provides life-saving care for injured wildlife many harmed by human activity. No other initiative combines community support, pet care, and ecological protection at this scale.

Why People Should Donate

Donating to Rise Foundation supports regeneration, justice, and peace in communities experiencing the frontlines of climate change.

Call to Action

Donate now to bring Tortuguero’s first veterinary clinic to life.