Mexico is one of the countries in Latin America with the highest population of stray dogs. In response to the growing awareness about animal welfare issues, World Stray Dog Day was established on July 27th to raise consciousness about the plight of these canines living on the streets.
(MERIDA YUCATAN – TYT) – The origins of this initiative can be traced back to South America, specifically to Chile in 2008. A journalism student named Ignacio Gac, residing in Santiago de Chile, took it upon himself to advocate for adoption to address the dire situation of street dogs, improve their living conditions, and promote better care for animals in general.
The choice of July 27th was not arbitrary; it relates to the seasonal cycle prevalent in the Southern Hemisphere. Unlike the Northern Hemisphere, where July marks the peak of summer, the Southern Hemisphere experiences winter during this month. South American countries face particularly harsh weather conditions in July, making it challenging for animals living on the streets who lack shelter from the elements.
To prevent more animals from enduring such conditions, Ignacio Gac envisioned that every July 27th would be an opportunity to launch campaigns that spotlight non-profit organizations working to improve the lives of stray dogs and promote adoption efforts.
Looking at the situation of stray dogs in Mexico, there is no comprehensive national registry to determine the exact number of strays. However, the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI) estimates that there may be around 23 to 25 million stray dogs in the country. Alarmingly, approximately 70% of the total dog population in Mexico lives on the streets, making it the country with the highest number of homeless canines.
Despite various adoption campaigns and public awareness programs about pet care, stray dogs in Mexico continue to suffer from hunger, cold weather, mistreatment, and multiple diseases.
Stray dog – photo Žaneta Mišutová for pexels.com
To address the problem of animal abandonment, a 2021 initiative sought to impose criminal sanctions for such acts. In some areas like Mexico City and Yucatan, euthanization of stray dogs remains a common practice, with thousands of dogs euthanized monthly. The lack of economic resources, unwillingness to take responsibility for pets, and time constraints were cited as the primary reasons for pet abandonment, according to a survey by Gabinete de Comunicación Estratégica (GCE).
Animal shelters are critical in handling the situation, taking in stray dogs, but they often face saturation and resource shortages. Sadly, many of these shelters have to euthanize many animals due to limited capacity. The survey also revealed that most people believe there is little awareness among the Mexican population about animal abuse and abandonment.
Sterilization campaigns have been implemented as a preventive measure to control the stray dog population and reduce abandonment. National Canine Rabies Vaccination Weeks have been conducted nationwide since the 1990s.
Overall, Stray Dog Day serves as a poignant reminder of countless homeless dogs’ worldwide struggles, urging society to take collective action to improve their lives and promote responsible pet ownership.
“Every dog has its day” a widely known phrase that encapsulates the notion that every living being, even those facing adversity, could be presented with a chance for a better life and a brighter future. We would like to think that saying highlights that despite the hardships and struggles stray dogs endure on the streets, there is hope for them to experience a life filled with love and care.
TYT Newsroom
