Municipalities in Argentina and Spain address rising stray animal populations

Local authorities in Esquel, Argentina, and Vigo, Spain, are implementing measures to manage the increasing number of stray dogs and cats in public spaces.

In Esquel, the municipality and neighborhood associations have established a protocol to identify stray animals and contact their owners. Urban Fauna coordinator Patricia Giacobone noted that despite ongoing sterilization efforts, there has been a resurgence of animals on the streets. The initiative focuses on promoting responsible ownership and enforcing regulations, with municipal teams contacting owners to encourage sterilization. If owners do not comply, infringement procedures are initiated. Residents have reported issues including animal abandonment following hunting activities, disease, and conflicts arising from animal fights.

In Vigo, municipal animal control services reported a significant spike in the capture of stray animals. Between January and September, 608 animals were collected, including 391 dogs and 208 cats. Data shows a notable increase in captures during the summer months. While many animals are reclaimed by their owners, others are transferred to the Animal Protection Center (CPA). The center manages adoptions, with 249 pets adopted so far this year, though the facility also manages cases involving natural deaths and euthanasia.