Animal protection activist Celeste Coello Armas calls for greater responsibility from pet owners.
After at least three people were bitten by stray dogs on the streets of San Cristóbal de las Casas, the animal protection community lamented these incidents and called for greater responsibility from pet owners, as well as the creation of a law that guarantees both animal protection and the safety of citizens.
The dog involved in the attacks has already been located and transferred to the Municipal Animal Control Center (CECAM), where it will remain under observation for 10 days to evaluate its behavior. However, it is noted that there are still several stray or homeless dogs that pose a risk to both residents and the animals themselves, which could be run over or abused.
Celeste Coello Armas, an activist and animal protector in San Cristóbal, explained that most dogs roaming the streets aren’t actually strays, but rather have owners who let them out unsupervised. “Many of these animals are abandoned, or their owners simply open the door and let them out without a leash or supervision. This is where, out of hunger or fear, they can react aggressively,” she noted.
Coello Armas called on municipal authorities to establish clear protocols for caring for stray animals and urged citizens to report cases of abandonment or abuse. “Owners must assume their responsibility. They shouldn’t allow their pets to go out alone, especially dogs over 20 kilos, which must wear a muzzle when walking,” she emphasized.
Finally, the activist urged the community to report any cases of loose or at-risk dogs, reminding everyone that the safety of people and the well-being of animals depend on everyone’s commitment and responsibility.
Source: El Heraldo de Chiapas
