In response to two separate complaints of animal cruelty registered last week, Chapala’s ecology office took swift action to rescue three adult dogs and four newborn puppies found to be living in squalid conditions without adequate food or medical care.
In the first case, a female mutt that was removed from its owner had to be euthanized after a veterinary evaluation determined a poor prognosis for recovery from the severe mange and grave state of malnutrition the animal had suffered for at least six months.
At a second home the authorities retrieved a male Chihuahua and a female Maltese mix with her of two-week-old pups. The owners were allowed to keep a female Chihuahua on the condition that they get her spayed and keep her well fed.
With the assistance of local animal protection activists, the mother dog and her litter have found a temporary home at Chapala’s now over-crowded Lucky Dog shelter. The male Chihuahua was taken to a Guadalajara animal clinic to receive provisional care and adoption placement.
To report cases of animal abuse, visit the Dirección de Ecología on the second floor at City Hall or call 765-8025.