Dr. Carlos Arreola

There are very few among us who have dedicated their life to the care and protection of others, with no thought of personal reward. Dr. Carlos Arreola was one of those very few. His extraordinary life was filled with selfless service to others, first as a combat-wounded veteran of the Vietnam War and later as a Veterans Administration Counselor, helping heal the hearts and minds of those who returned in body but not in spirit. His interest in nature and the preservation of all living things became a dominant theme in his life, and he began to involve himself more deeply in wildlife care and animal rescue. He determined to participate in Cleveland Amory’s rescue of the Grand Canyon Burros, who were scheduled for slaughter by the National Park Service. The idea of making a home near Huntsville for some of these castaways fixed Carlos’ future destiny and personal philosophy, as he observed how animals in our society were objectified and casually tossed away when inconvenient. Little Woman Home for Animals (LWHA) was founded in 1999 with the mission of providing life-long care to those who came to stay, and he never wavered in that goal for the following 20 years. LWHA was named in memory of a beloved Chihuahua “Little Woman,” the first of his countless animal guests that came to his gate over the following years. Carlos was intensely personal and was legendary among those who knew him for finding ways to avoid talking about himself or his life. His interest was solely in keeping the 14-acres he purchased as the site of LWHA as unspoiled as possible. His concern was for all nature, and he expressed his desire to make sure the plants, birds and even insects were provided a place in their natural habitat, and not displaced unless necessary to construct facilities to care for the animals. He poured his heart, his soul, his financial resources and his prodigious energy into Little Woman Home without reservation and without thought for himself. His life was bound up with LWHA and his only concern was making sure that vision did not fade after he passed. Carlos was an inspiration, a joy, a mystery, and an exemplar for all whose heart is touched by the suffering of any animal, who believe human beings should be caretakers of the amazing creatures we share this world with and who give of themselves so that suffering can be lessened. He will never be replaced, but will be remembered by his family and friends their whole life long. And no doubt, Carlos would be most pleased knowing that his presence here on earth meant that countless creatures enjoyed an existence they would not have had, but for his great love. Godspeed to you, Carlos. Dr. Arreola asked that those desiring to remember him do so by support of LWHA. Donations in the form of checks may be sent to Little Woman Home for Animals, 66 Evelyn Ln., Huntsville, TX 77340. Online donations may be made at www.littlewomanhome.org, using the Remember Carlos top link.

Dr. Carlos Arreola

December 27, 1941 - November 19, 2019