Many pet owners are not complying with responsible pet ownership regulations, so the Mérida City Council will update and improve the regulations for these animals, says biologist Raúl Escalante Aguilar, director of the Environment and Animal Welfare Unit.
Interviewed about the pit bull attack on a small dog and a U.S. citizen in Gran Parque La Plancha, as reported by the newspaper, Escalante Aguilar emphasizes that a primary rule pet owners must follow is not to let their dogs off-leash in public parks to relieve themselves anywhere within the recreational space, as their feces and urine generate bacteria that could be dangerous for visitors.
Another rule being disregarded is that many dogs considered aggressive breeds are taken to parks without a muzzle, and their owners lack training in their proper handling.
“The lack of care from pet owners is a problem in the city,” he says.
“There are breeds that obviously can react differently to other animals. The regulations are very clear. To begin with, owners need to know that if they are going out with their pet, the owner must be with the animal and keep it on a leash.”
Escalante Aguilar anticipates that the City Council will update the regulations on pet ownership, since it is a reality that some dog breeds are more aggressive than others when they go to the parks.
“If the owner knows their dog’s temperament, it is important that if they take it to the park, they go to the ‘pet-friendly’ area or use some kind of restraint, such as a muzzle, to prevent aggression,” he says.
“These days, spaces for companion animals are opening up all over the city, but it is important to regulate these places. We are talking about shopping centers, restaurants, and even parks.”
“Currently, the City Council has many requests to create spaces for dogs. It is very easy for residents to let their dogs off the leash, but it’s not just a matter of letting them off the leash,” he reiterates.
“These areas already have special regulations. If you know your pet has a history of aggression towards other animals, you must comply with municipal regulations, such as using a muzzle, keeping a short leash, or even avoiding these crowded places altogether to prevent conflicts.”
Escalante Aguilar points out that the City Hall does not receive reports of dog bites.
He only learned of one case because the pet was taken to a veterinarian. All matters related to this issue are handled by the State Health Department, and complex cases are referred to the State Attorney General’s Office.
“The City Hall does not have judicial authority. In serious cases, pets are taken to the Animal Protection Unit, or an administrative fine is issued for violating regulations, such as walking your dog without a leash or not using a muzzle if you know the dog has aggressive behavior.”
The head of the municipal department explains that there are designated areas for animals in La Plancha Park, but if a pet owner knows their dog is aggressive or becomes agitated around other dogs, they should separate it or take it to another section to prevent it from harming other dogs.
“Walking dogs requires a high level of awareness, responsibility, and knowledge of animal behavior,” he states.
“It’s important to consult a trainer because these professionals not only teach obedience but also use very positive practices for the animals. The Animal Care Center even offers free training when a dog is adopted and also sterilizes them.”
Escalante Aguilar maintains that all animals are good, although sometimes their instincts get the better of them and they attack.
The official admits that there is an overabundance of domestic dogs, which is why the parks are so crowded, as owners take their dogs for walks. However, feces and urine contaminate the facilities and pose a health risk to children and the general public.
For this reason, pets are prohibited from entering children’s play areas, restricted areas, and green spaces.
“This is where the responsibility of a guardian or pet owner becomes crucial, because it’s not only their duty to pick up their pet’s feces and keep them out of children’s play areas, but also because there are bacteria, viruses, parasites, and zoonotic diseases that can be transmitted to humans.”
It’s also important to remember that failing to pick up dog waste is a violation of the regulations, and parks generally have designated areas for animals.
“The golden rule is that dogs should not be let off-leash in sports fields or parks; that’s wrong and detrimental to public health.”
Source: yucatan
