Stray Dog Numbers Surge in Mérida and Córdoba as Abandonment Grows

In Mérida, Mexico, officials report a sharp increase in stray dogs linked to pet abandonment and limited sterilisation. The city’s Environment and Animal Welfare Directorate recorded 34 emergency rescues and more than 500 citizen reports in early 2026, noting that urban expansion has displaced many animals into residential areas. Rescued dogs are taken to a municipal animal care centre for medical treatment, while authorities coordinate with the state prosecutor to address animal‑mistreatment complaints. They stress the need for expanded sterilisation campaigns and responsible pet‑ownership education.

In Córdoba, Argentina, animal‑protection groups and veterinarians observe a similar rise in abandoned dogs, particularly pure‑breed animals such as Shar Pei. NGOs receive 25‑30 dogs each month, most of which were previously owned and later discarded due to health or behaviour issues. Veterinarians highlight the lack of official registration and post‑sterilisation tracking, limiting the effectiveness of municipal castration programs. Both regions call for stronger public policies, systematic monitoring, and community involvement to curb the growing stray‑dog problem.