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| Support is growing for animal welfare in Puerto Rico. |
By Carly Ikuma
Recent media reports of pets being confiscated and killed in Puerto Rico have shocked animal lovers around the world, prompting protests, petitions and letters to the Puerto Rican government.
Residents of a public housing project contend that a contractor hired by the local government confiscated their dogs and cats and threw them over the side of a bridge. Evidently, many of the animals died, and those who survived the almost 50-foot fall were severely injured. Some owners retrieved their pets and took them to veterinarians for immediate care.
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November 16, 2007—Animal advocates around the world were distressed to learn this week that the cruelty in Puerto Rico may be far more widespread than originally known. HSI's representative recently met with local groups and government officials there to discuss the details of this matter and determine how HSI could further assist. HSI is also exploring the development of humane programs to improve animal control and spay/neuter initiatives on the island. |
Humane Society International (HSI) has offered to cover the cost of medical expenses for the pets who were injured in this incident and has written letters to several Puerto Rican officials, urging a quick and thorough investigation. HSI will also be advising and contributing resources to local animal protection organizations and the government to help set up long-term, island-wide, humane animal control methods.
A Growing Problem
According to a poll published by weekly Puerto Rican newspaper Caribbean Business, almost two thirds of the population own some type of pet, from dogs to cats to rabbits. In addition, well over half of the poll respondents expressed their dismay regarding poisonous products being marketed for the inhumane control of street animals.
Concern about animal welfare in Puerto Rico is not new. Many residents and organizations have long campaigned for the government to do more, without substantial success. HSI receives emails and calls every month expressing concern over the street dog and cat situation, farm animal welfare and equine abuse on the island.
In the wake of these recent reports, the call for action has become even louder. Government involvement and cooperation is critical to any long-term solution, and HSI hopes that this incident, though extremely unfortunate, will convince Puerto Rican officials that the world is watching and that animal welfare is of genuine concern to its citizens.
Several members of Puerto Rican organizations have attended The Humane Society of the United States' (HSUS) annual Animal Care Expo and HSI's international workshops, building relationships with the HSI/HSUS team and learning how to tackle the many issues they face—often with little support.
Amigos de los Animales, Save-A-Sato, the Puerto Rican Animal Welfare Society, Alianza Pro Adopcion de Mascotas, Inc. and Manos por Patas are some of the groups who tirelessly work for all animals and the people who love them in Puerto Rico.
HSI will continue to lend support to local organizations and encourage positive collaboration with police, lawmakers and private citizens in the hopes of initiating a long-lasting change for the better for animal welfare in Puerto Rico.
Updated May 5, 2009
