The issue of animal abandonment is a deeply troubling reality in Portugal, and it's time we shed light on this harsh truth. As an advocate for animal welfare, I find it disheartening to witness the normalization of such cruel acts.
The Stories of Ziro and Mike
Two elderly companions, Ziro and Mike, found themselves abandoned, left to fend for themselves on the streets. Their stories are a stark reminder of the consequences of human negligence. Ziro, a victim of abuse and neglect, suffered serious injuries, while Mike, with a heart condition, was left to the care of neighbors. Their fates were ultimately decided by a relative's decision to leave them behind.
A Legal Battle
While abandoning an animal is a crime in Portugal, the legal process often fails to deliver justice. Sandra Duarte Cardoso, a veterinary surgeon and president of SOS Animal, has been fighting an uphill battle. She explains the challenges of pursuing legal action when the microchip is registered in the deceased owner's name, making it difficult to hold the responsible party accountable.
A Summer Crisis
International Abandoned Animals Day, falling on August 15th, serves as a grim reminder of the worsening situation during the summer months. Sandra Duarte Cardoso highlights the irony of people abandoning their pets while planning their vacations, a stark contrast to how they would treat their human children.
The Ineffectiveness of Microchipping
Despite the introduction of mandatory microchipping for dogs in 2008 and cats in 2022, the number of abandoned pets remains high. The president of SOS Animal distinguishes between surrenders and abandonments, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of the issue.
Enforcement and Statistics
The National Republican Guard has recorded a significant number of crimes related to animal abandonment, with a notable spike during July and August. These statistics highlight the urgency of addressing this problem.
A Sanctuary's Struggle
SOS Animal, a dedicated NGO, has faced its fair share of challenges. The sanctuary, with its hidden location, has been a target for daily animal dumping. Sandra Duarte Cardoso expresses her horror at the memories of animals being thrown over the fence, including a young puppy and a goat with broken legs.
A Civic Education Crisis
At the heart of this issue lies a severe lack of civic education regarding our relationship with animals. Sandra Duarte Cardoso struggles to comprehend how individuals capable of creating life can so easily discard another living being. She believes abandonment has become normalized in Portuguese society, with people using it as a form of blackmail when seeking help for their pets.
Understanding the Reasons
In a scientific article published in the Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science, Sandra Duarte Cardoso identified common reasons for abandonment, including lack of time, animal illness, lack of space, and aggressive behavior. The post-pandemic period revealed a lack of commitment, with many adopting pets during lockdown only to return them once their routines resumed.
The Role of Economics
Rising veterinary costs have also contributed to the problem, with many unable to afford necessary treatments. This leads to difficult decisions, such as putting animals down, not out of malice but due to financial constraints. It's a situation that highlights the need for affordable veterinary care.
The State's Responsibility
Sandra Duarte Cardoso places the blame squarely on the state, criticizing successive governments for their lack of priority and effective strategy. She proposes compulsory sterilization of dogs and cats, with financial support for those in need, a measure already implemented in countries like Greece.
A Call for Responsible Adoption
SOS Animal promotes responsible adoption, with a rigorous protocol in place. They prioritize quality over quantity, aiming for successful adoptions with minimal returns. This approach ensures the well-being of the animals and discourages impulsive decisions.
In conclusion, the issue of animal abandonment is a complex problem that requires a multi-faceted approach. It's time for a cultural shift, one that values and respects the lives of our animal companions.
