Amanda Cháves – HSI
Authorities rescued 68 animals from negligence and cruelty in a house in Montes de Oca. Dogs and cats lived in dirt, but now they will have a chance to live in great conditions.
The operation took place on Monday, September 4th, according to Humane Society International of Latin America (HSI). The work was led by the National Animal Health Service (SENASA) and the Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ). HSI also collaborated.
According to the organization, the owner voluntarily gave all the animals to the officials. SENASA and OIJ acted together for the first time in accordance with the new mandate approved last June in Law 9458 Against Animal Abuse.
HSI reported that most animals showed signs of malnutrition, severe skin problems, extreme knots on their fur and long nails. Several dogs and cats had health problems that required immediate specialized attention.
The animals were transferred to the Humanitarian Association for Animal Protection, where a veterinarian checked their health. The rescued animals also received tooth cleaning, bathing, vaccination, de-worming and treatment for severe skin problems.
Andrea Borel, executive director of HSI Latin America said that animal neglect situations are very common.
Well-intentioned people try to help stray animals by picking them up, without taking into account the real implications of this action. Soon they have an unmanageable situation that escalates to animal suffering. We find these cats and dogs living in their own filth, with untreated medical conditions and shortage of food and water,”
explained Borel.
HSI will be responsible for sterilizing the animals and leaving them ready for adoption by responsible households. In addition, the Public Prosecutor’s Office will proceed against the animal hoarder.