What kinds of animal control problems exist? The most profound suffering occurs in poor colonias and the campo which most tourists and foreign residents do not see.
- Abandonment
- Abuse
- Loneliness
- Neglect
- Starvation
- Overcrowded shelters
- Mange and other diseases Dogs with wires or ropes grown into their skin
- Dogs living on burning hot or freezing cold roofs
- Hoarders with 20-70 sick and dying cats and kittens
My neighbors cannot afford to have their animals sterilized.
They can call 120-0735 from 11 am - 2 pm and from 4 pm - 8 pm Monday through Friday to make an appointment for surgery paid for by Amigos. Donations are gratefully accepted.
Shouldn't animals have one litter before being spayed?
There is no conclusive medical evidence to justify this myth. In fact, spaying female dogs and cats eliminates the possibility of developing uterine or ovarian cancer and greatly reduces the threat of mammary cancer. That one litter will accelerate the overpopulation problem in San Miguel. Click here to see how.
Shouldn't children be allowed to witness the miracle of birth?
Most dogs and cats have their litters at night in quiet, dark places far out of anyone's sight. Besides, every litter of puppies and kittens born contributes to the thousands of unwanted dogs and cats suffering and dying in San Miguel as described above.
Don't animals become overweight after being sterilized?
As any animal matures, it is necessary for owners to adjust dietary intake to compensate for more sedentary lifestyles. Animals can become overweight when they are fed too much and not exercised properly.
Isn't behavior adversely affected by spaying/neutering?
Male cats tend to reduce territorial spraying, depending on their age at neutering. While still able to defend themselves, neutered dogs and cats fight less, resulting in fewer wounds and lessening the spread of contagious diseases. They are more likely to stay home more because they no longer wander in search of a mate.
How can I catch feral cats or wild dogs and have them fixed?
With a small deposit, Amigos de Animales will lend you a Have-A-Heart cat trap in order to catch feral cats. To make arrangements for a trap, click here: info@amigos-sma.org The Department of Ecologia has dog-sized traps. They can be reached at 120-4332 or 120-4339.
What can I do about my neighbors' barking dog or yowling cat?
It is always best to first talk to the neighbor in a friendly, non-threatening way. Explain that you are worried about the animal and wonder what can be done. If nothing changes after a couple of days it is helpful to return with a bilingual neighbor who understands the situation. Your last resort should be reporting it to Ecología by calling 120-4332 or 120-4339. There are new regulations in effect that give Ecología the legal right to help.
