The Servicio Nacional de Salud Animal (SENASA) from the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, recommended not carrying pets to the Romería pilgrims because pets get hurt. In addition, the number of abandoned dogs increases near the area.
In last year’s pilgrimage, around 70 dogs were abandoned by their owners, or got lost and escaped during the journey. Furthermore, it is important to remember that public transportation isn’t allowed to transport animals,
said Iliana Céspedes, coordinator of Small Species Welfare Program from SENASA.
Céspedes stated that making pets walk in such strenuous, tiring hikes can cause injury to the sciatic nerve, spine column, pad damage for walking long hours on the pavement, severe dehydration and, as a long-term consequence, kidney problems.
If for any reason, a person has to take a pet, please follow these instructions:
-Prior walk trainings for dogs.
-After the pilgrims, check if the dog has difficulties to walk or to get up. If that is the case, take it to the vet clinic immediately.