Here is the latest news from ACTIN about the situation for the container dogs. Permission now given to publicise this. Please continue to support ACTIN's legal team, a successful outcome for this case can be a precedent for use in the whole of Spain!
'The owners have kept their dogs in the container for 5 years, we are trying to find out about previous dogs. Actin was only informed of this 2 months ago. Previous denuncias and complaints in the past, since 2010, have had no effect. Right now there are 4 dogs and 1 puppy inside; we can report some positive changes. The dogs have food and water, this has improved. The owners have coated the inside of the container with a material to regulate temperature, heat inside is the same as outside; we are not satisfied with this, BUT it is 20 degrees less than it would have been.
The flooring has been improved for easier cleaning, vents have been cut to let in more light and air; the dogs have been microchipped and vaccinated against rabies. All this has happened as a result of the denuncias and court action by Actin, who commissioned DeAnimals lawyer to present the case, made possible with donations from the supporters; something is finally being done.
Now we continue with an appeal.
One of the aspects of this case that has come to light is that the authorities responsible for animal welfare, abuse and cruelty, even many vets and those that care for animals, have no awareness of the laws in place, and do not understand the processes. This is a problem all over Spain and results in people being afraid to complain.
Here in Murcia it has started to improve but in Valencia where this case is, there is much ignorance about the laws, the process and how to do it. Since this case has started many people involved in animal welfare have asked for more information about the laws and how to use the system to fight cruelty neglect and abuse. So consequently Actin will be organising a project along with DeAnimals lawyer to set up an education programme for the authorities. We will need help and funds to make this happen, this is another step in the right direction.
The owners of the dogs have some kind of well-meaning towards the animals, as the cost for the changes would have been great. It is better that they take responsibility, than yet another struggling Association have to take the brunt. This is a modicum of progress. However, we are by no means finished. A shipping container is still no suitable environment for dogs, or any animal.'
To those who criticise, remember that Spain is still moving out of the dark ages...do not judge this by what you would do in the UK or America. And to the person who wrote to me from Alicante criticising - you say there is a container dog case near you, so instead of criticising ACTIN, do something to help the dogs near you!
a result great
Posted by: jenny | 19 July 2015 at 07:55 PM