Mérida expands animal welfare program with mass sterilizations and adoption drive

The municipal government of Mérida, Yucatán, announced that more than 4,200 dogs and cats have been sterilized through its municipal veterinary clinic, mobile units and four Esterimóvil vans. A special free‑sterilization day of 600 surgeries is planned for 21 July, accompanied by free rabies vaccinations and deworming.

The city also launched a "Haz match" adoption campaign. Over 6,500 municipal employees act as digital ambassadors, sharing profiles of rescued dogs and cats from the Centro Municipal de Atención Animal (CEMAA). Adoption fairs are scheduled for 15 July (Parque de la colonia Aralias), 22 July (Plaza de Armas) and 29 July (again at Aralias), requiring ID, proof of address and a home‑security assessment.

Together, the sterilization effort and organized adoptions aim to reduce stray animal populations, promote responsible pet ownership and improve public health in Mérida.