Animal abuse and cruelty are not only the damage caused to these species but are also alarming signs of deeper social problems, warns forensic veterinarian Sara Patricia Chagolla Morales.
For the specialist, in a high percentage of cases of abuse, there are antecedents of domestic violence. “Animal abuse often becomes the prelude to violent acts against other human beings.”
In Yucatan, where more than 600 cases of animal abuse and cruelty have been recorded in recent years, the figures are alarming.
According to the veterinarian, these acts cannot be separated from other social problems, such as depression and suicide. “Abuse reflects emotional loss of control or psychological affectation in those who commit them. In children, it is often a reflection of what they experience at home.”
The lack of attention to cases of animal cruelty has been due to corruption and the prioritization of other crimes, she says. “Resources are allocated to dealing with crimes such as murder or kidnapping, leaving aside what could be a preventive measure. If cases of animal abuse were addressed, other serious social problems could be identified and prevented,” she emphasizes.
Dr. Chagolla believes that recently the role of the forensic veterinarian has acquired crucial relevance in the fight against animal abuse.
Forensic veterinarian Sara Patricia Chagolla Morales highlighted the challenges, the importance of training, and the joint work between society and government to protect animals.
“Nine years ago, forensic veterinary medicine was in its infancy in Mexico. I started this path after a case of mass poisoning of cows in Michoacán, where no one wanted to intervene because it was a conflict between families,” shared the doctor.
“Since then, I discovered the need for specialization in this area and the enormous impact it has on criminal justice.”
Currently, forensic veterinary expertise plays an essential role in the accusatory criminal justice system, providing scientific evidence in cases of animal cruelty or abuse.
“A poorly prepared report can lead to an innocent person being jailed or release someone who represents a social danger.”
Aware of the lack of knowledge both among public servants and in society, the doctor highlighted the importance of training forums.
It is crucial to know the distinction between a complaint and a lawsuit. “The difference between a complaint and a lawsuit lies in the fact that the former is used in the criminal field to report crimes, such as animal abuse, allowing the complainant to actively participate in the process, while the latter corresponds to the civil or administrative field and seeks compensation for damages,” she explained.
“In cases of animal cruelty, the protocol includes documenting the abuse with evidence, filing a criminal complaint or notice to protective agencies, requesting the rescue of the animal if it is in danger and legally following up on the case. “It is crucial to promote education and reporting to prevent future abuse,” emphasized Sara Chagolla.
Immediate notification
If an animal dies due to abuse, the specialist recommended immediately notifying the Prosecutor’s Office, which should send its experts to investigate the case as if it were a human death.
However, she warned that due to the overload of work, there is not always an adequate response, which leaves animal victims without justice.
Dr. Chagolla stressed the importance of having clear and precise evidence in cases of animal abuse or cruelty to ensure that justice is done.
“Documenting the abuse with photographs, videos or any other type of evidence is essential for the case to be seriously considered by the authorities and not go unpunished,” she stressed.
If there is no immediate access to the Prosecutor’s Office services, the recommendation is to try to preserve the animal’s body. “It can provide crucial evidence, so it is vital that it is not altered until the experts can investigate it,” explained the forensic veterinarian.
Animal attacks on people are also a complex issue, and justice should never be taken into one’s own hands. A clear example occurred a few years ago when a dog was killed with a machete in revenge for what was thought to have been a bite. The response to such events should be based on a legal process, not revenge.
In many cases, he explained, the aggressiveness of animals comes from situations of previous abuse or self-defense, as occurred in the case of a dog that attacked a person after being kicked.
Acting violently towards the animal in response to perceived harm, without clear evidence or due process of law, only perpetuates violence and does not solve the problem. Authorities are in charge of investigating, and enforcing the law, not the people.
“Justice must be impartial, the law exists to prevent vengeful attitudes from taking over conflict resolution, as they only feed a cycle of abuse that affects both humans and animals.”
For Dr. Chagolla, the fight is no longer just about raising one’s voice, but about acting. “We cannot continue waiting for the authorities to solve everything. We must all do our part.”
Despite the progress, the battle against animal abuse remains a titanic task that requires the joint effort of society, authorities and professionals.
“As a society, we have a fundamental role. It is not just about demanding, but about acting from our square meter. It is a team effort. Change begins with education and action. We have the elements and the desire, now is the time to use them,” the expert concluded.
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