Responsible Pet Ownership: Addressing the Issue of Animal Abandonment in Mexico

Web Editor

August 25, 2025

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The Problem of Animal Abandonment in Mexico

Animal abandonment remains a significant issue in Mexico, with dogs and cats being frequently left behind. Beatriz Rodríguez, General Director of Neverías Frody and spokesperson for Croquetón, highlights that factors contributing to this problem include behavioral issues, economic difficulties, incompatible lifestyles, and the lack of sterilization leading to unwanted litters.

“A furry friend is not just a home accessory; they are an essential part of the family,” emphasizes Rodríguez, acknowledging that there is still a need for education and social awareness regarding responsible pet adoption.

Impact on Animal Shelters

The overpopulation issue directly affects animal shelters, which struggle daily to meet the nutritional and medical needs of the animals. According to rescuers, the average weekly expense is approximately 100,000 pesos, primarily funded by citizen donations.

Adoption vs. Return Disparity

Another challenge is the 40% deficit between adoptions and returns. Rodríguez points out that many people fail to consider their lifestyle before adopting. “Having a pet involves proper nutrition, exercise, hygiene, socialization, veterinary care, and space,” she advises.

The Role of Social Cause Campaigns

In this context, campaigns like Croquetón become crucial. They not only collect food and raise awareness about the issue but also create a cross-impact where businesses and consumers collaborate for a social cause.

Rodríguez stresses that the most urgent needs for shelters and rescuers are food and medical attention, though volunteers and financial resources are also required. Citizens can contribute through concrete actions: reporting and rejecting animal abuse, promoting sterilization, and considering adoption as an informed and definitive decision.

Key Questions and Answers

  • What is the main issue discussed in this article? The article focuses on the problem of animal abandonment in Mexico and the efforts to promote responsible pet ownership.
  • Who is Beatriz Rodríguez and why is she relevant? Beatriz Rodríguez is the General Director of Neverías Frody and a spokesperson for Croquetón. She is relevant because she highlights the factors contributing to animal abandonment and emphasizes the need for education and social awareness.
  • What challenges do animal shelters face? Animal shelters struggle with meeting the nutritional and medical needs of the animals, often relying on citizen donations to cover weekly expenses of around 100,000 pesos.
  • What is the adoption vs. return disparity? There is a 40% deficit between animal adoptions and returns, often due to people not considering their lifestyle before adopting a pet.
  • How do campaigns like Croquetón help address this issue? Campaigns like Croquetón collect food and raise awareness, while also fostering collaboration between businesses and consumers for a social cause.
  • What can citizens do to support responsible pet ownership? Citizens can report animal abuse, promote sterilization, and make informed decisions when considering pet adoption.