Mérida looks to improve image with animal lovers by launching new website
The new website “Fauna Mérida” serves to inform the public about the city’s animal welfare efforts.
The effort comes roughly a month after animal rights activists in Mérida stormed a municipal animal shelter alleging crowding and unsanitary conditions.
“We understand that this is an issue with many moving parts. It has to do with public health, but also animal welfare and the involvement of civil society,” said Eugenia Correa Arce, director of the city’s sustainable development office.
It has also been announced that the city will be working with the state veterinary college and several local organizations to address problems regarding the inadequacies of current approaches and issue recommendations on how to better promote animal adoption.
It has also been announced that the Municipal Animal Control Center will be undergoing a thorough restructuring. These plans include further specialized training for staff, general maintenance and the refurbishing of several areas.
According to city police, between January and November 2020, 56 reports of animal abuse were filed, with 50 of these being resolved satisfactorily. When questioned about the number of animals “sacrificed” by the city during this same period, authorities claimed to not have that data available.
“We know there is still much to do. We have to update our rules, protocols and make changes in the short, medium and long term — always hand in hand with Merida’s citizenry,” said Correa Arce.
Senior Editor Carlos Rosado van der Gracht is a Mexican expedition/Canadian photographer, adventure leader, and PhD candidate. Born in Mérida, Carlos holds multimedia, philosophy, and translation degrees from universities in Mexico, Canada and Norway.
