The Ministry of Justice, the Animal Health Department, activists, and Coffee Cat celebrated the completion of the project “Felines of Buen Pastor”. The project made it possible to rescue and relocate more than 40 cats after the prison’s closure. During the event, activists and collaborators were recognised for their dedication and commitment to animal welfare.
As a result of the project, 41 cats were rescued. Of the total, 25 adopted thanks to Coffee Cat – a beloved cat café – and 16 adopted privately. All were spayed or neutered to ensure their well-being and population control. This joint effort demonstrates that solidarity and teamwork can transform lives, including those of our animals.
The story behind cat protections
The story began when Mónica Argüello, a well-known animal rescuer and advocate, contacted Coffee Cat to ask for help rescuing the “michis” (cats). Those animals had been left behind inside the prison grounds after its closure. The prison recently closed definitively, marking the end of 106 years of operation. The decision stemmed from the unsustainable overcrowding and outdated infrastructure, Without hesitation, the team agreed to join the cat saving mission.
With the support of the Ministry of Justice, entry to Buen Pastor was authorised. However, the task was far from easy. The animals, once cared for by the inmates, were now disoriented and afraid. After several days of patient work using trap cages, the entire colony was finally rescued.
A safe home
Later, the Ministry of Animal Defense provided veterinary care for all the animals, ensuring their full recovery. Once they were healthy again, Coffee Cat welcomed 25 of them. The café is offering a safe home, proper nutrition, veterinary attention, and above all, love.
“At Coffee Cat, we believe that every animal’s life is sacred. We celebrate love, not abandonment; respect, not mistreatment. Every purr reminds us that affection can also be adopted, because in every paw there’s a story that deserves to be embraced,” shares Lourdes Pérez, owner and cofounder of the establishment.
Today, the Buen Pastor animals are enjoying a peaceful, caring environment – a second chance at a happy feline life.
