Xalapa animal rescue: 12 dogs saved from cruelty and ritual sites

Authorities and animal welfare collectives rescued 12 dogs and a cat from a residence in the Santa Rosa neighborhood of Xalapa, Veracruz, following reports of extreme neglect and cruelty. During the operation, which took place between August 24 and 25, activists found the animals in unsanitary conditions, surrounded by feces and lacking adequate food or water.

Rescuers and neighbors reported finding evidence of ritualistic practices within the home, including various symbols and objects. The intervention was supported by organizations such as ‘Conectando con el Corazón’ and ‘Ada Azul’. The rescued animals have been moved to temporary shelters for medical evaluation.

Local officials, including the head of Veracruz's Secretariat of Environment (SEDEMA), Luz Mariela Zaleta Mendoza, have pledged to strengthen coordination with the State Prosecutor's Office to follow up on these cases. Activists noted that the property had a history of animal cruelty, citing a previous investigation from a year ago involving dogs being thrown from the building. The identified occupant of the home is reportedly a taxi driver, and investigations by the Specialized Prosecutor's Office for Environmental and Animal Crimes (Fedayca) are ongoing.