AHPPA Founder Wins Humane Society Award

Lilian Schnog, president and founder of the Costa Rican Humanitarian Association for Animal Protection (AHPPA) in San Rafael de Heredia, north of San José, was awarded the 2009 Humane Society International Award for Extraordinary Commitment and Achievement April 8 at the society’s annual Animal Care Expo, held in the U.S. city of Las Vegas. The award recognizes Lilian for her work toward improving conditions for animals in Costa Rica.

Lilian left her native Holland 20 years ago to move to Costa Rica with her husband. Shortly after arriving, she noticed the animal shelter in Heredia and began to use her experience with animals as a volunteer, grooming and washing the dogs at the shelter. She hasn’t left since, continuing her lifelong work with animals at AHPPA and inspiring others with her energy and enthusiasm.

The award recognizes individual animal protectionists throughout the world, particularly those in developing countries. Previous award winners include recipients from Peru, India, France and Zimbabwe.

This is the first time a person in Costa Rica has won the award. AHPPA is in partnership with the Humane Society and shares this network with many other developing countries.

For more information about AHPPA, visit www.animalsheltercostarica.com.

–Karin MacKinnon