December 10th marks World Animal Rights Day, a date that invites us to reflect on the treatment that these beings receive in Yucatán, one of the states that has registered serious cases of abuse.
Yucatecan activist Elsa Arceo Medina, representative of independent rescuers, revealed that the state ranks first in the country in cases of animal abuse and third in Latin America.
From 2021 to 2023, 628 complaints were officially registered, but the real number could be much higher due to the lack of formal reports, she said.
“Facebook is sometimes the only way to report cases of animal cruelty and the authorities frequently discourage those who try to do so formally,” Elsa lamented.
Only one case in Mérida has resulted in prison: that of Julio N., convicted of torturing and killing the dog Rufo. From this unfortunate case arose the Rufo Law which punishes cases of abuse in the state with prison.
Despite these legal advances, local public policies do not reflect these changes, she lamented.
“Animal abuse and cruelty are connected, but the agencies work in isolation,” said the activist.
For her part, Kelly González, representative of Esperanza Animal, stressed the importance of education and sterilization as key tools to combat animal abuse.
These measures prevent abandonment and improve the quality of life of animals. However, for these solutions to be effective, it is necessary to expand their scope and accessibility, said the activist.
Clear sanctions needed
Kelly González also emphasized the need for clear and effective legal sanctions to punish animal cruelty. “Many times, cases of abuse go unpunished due to the lack of rigorous application of existing laws,” she said.
The activists called for unity among rescuers, activists, and associations, leaving aside rivalries and working together for a common goal.
Their groups carry out awareness campaigns in schools and communities, financed independently. Protectors and activists consider a person’s first years of life crucial for instilling respect for all living beings.
TYT Newsroom
