They seek to create a census of dogs and cats to combat abandonment in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico.— The president of the Commission of Government of the House of Representatives, Víctor Parés, announced his intention to promote the creation of a census of dogs and cats in Puerto Rico, an initiative that seeks to establish new strategies to reduce the abandonment of animals on the Island and strengthen support for non-profit organizations and veterinary services. Parés explained that the census would allow for precise data on the pet population, which would facilitate the identification of real needs and the channeling of resources and funds to address the problem of abandonment.

“In Puerto Rico, one in three households has a pet, mainly dogs and/or cats. We are a society of animal lovers, but we all recognize that there is a serious problem with abandonment on our streets,” he stated.

The legislator pointed out that, as part of the process, a meeting will be convened with different sectors to outline the parameters and methodology of the census, in order to ensure that it is effective and useful for the design of public policies.

You may be interested in: Over 420 kilos of cocaine seized in Puerto Rico

“We need to seek new strategies that allow us to access funding sources and address this situation in a comprehensive manner,” he added.

The initiative also aims to serve as a tool to improve the planning of sterilization, vaccination, and education campaigns on responsible pet ownership, as well as to reinforce the work carried out by rescuers and community entities throughout the Island.