There’s so much to love about Turks and Caicos: friendly people, sunny weather, world-class resorts and villas, breathtaking crystalline beaches and, last but by no means least, our now famous four-legged residents known as potcakes.
What is a potcake?
If you’ve never heard the term potcake before now, it is used to refer to the local breed of dogs in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The name is derived from the practice of locals feeding their dogs the leftovers of the meals from their cooking pot, which is referred to as “potcake”.
Growing up in Turks and Caicos, having a potcake puppy is almost a birthright. It is typical for families to naturally adopt and care for them. Potcakes are loyal, loving and very protective of their owners. They can almost be referred to as “the national dog of the Turks and Caicos Islands”.
Although many of these dogs are naturally taken in, a lot are not, and The Potcake Place has come to the rescue.
The Potcake Place
The Potcake Place is a dog rescue charity based in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos, that is committed to adopting out potcakes in the country. Their mission statement, “to reduce the number of homeless potcakes on the island”, adds to the commitment of making sure every potcake that comes into their organization can find a safe home.
Located in the heart of Grace Bay, Providenciales, at the Saltmills Plaza, this walk-in-friendly establishment allows residents and visitors to pop in, meet the adorable pups they’ve rescued and even adopt them for the day. Providing the ultimate care on a day-to-day basis, the volunteers at The Potcake Place do everything from taking the puppies on beach trips to looking after them at home to get them socialized. These helpers are experts at screening potential families to adopt these precious pups.
Volunteers and visitors
The volunteers also work with veterinarians to ensure that the pups get their vaccinations, wormers, other treatments and the certifications that are needed. The organization is 100% volunteer-based and not for profit. Donations in cash or kind are suggested, and there is no cost to adopt a puppy.
There are a number of ways visitors can support this charity, but the most popular is to help socialize the puppies by “adopting” one for a few hours. Our potcakes love the beach, and visitors often enjoy taking them for walks along the renowned Grace Bay Beach. This opportunity is available on a first-come, first-served basis and, because of its growing popularity, it is recommended to secure your spot by arriving early.
More ways to help
There are also opportunities to permanently adopt a puppy, be a courier for a family that is waiting to welcome their newest family member, or assist by bringing items from the organization’s wish list to aid in the care of the puppies. Visit The Potcake Place’s website to find out more about this amazing organization.
Planning a family trip? Our guide to a Turks and Caicos family getaway has more ideas for keeping everyone entertained.
