Animal advocates (both individuals and organizations) consistently face issues of standing when advocating for animal protection and better welfare. Only the government can enforce most statutes that protect animals against cruelty. Another obstacle animal advocates face are the costs associated with filing lawsuit when monetary compensation is negligible or nonexistent. In many circumstances, such as …
Continue reading “When False Claims by Government Contractors is Animal Cruelty”
In 2022, after a decade of receiving multiple complaints from Puerto Rican citizens about animal cruelty and neglect, the municipality of Ponce canceled its agreement with government contractor Animal Rescue and Protection Services (“ARPS”). ARPS operated the animal shelter in Calle Baramaya, in the municipality of Ponce. A 2021 audit by the mayor’s office showed …
Continue reading “Government Responsibility for Domestic Animal Control”
For over two years, Puerto Rico has considered domestic and domesticated animals as “sentient beings,” and not objects or property. According to our Civil Code of 2020, we must treat these animals according to their nature. We must consider their well-being and physical security in decisions on their guardianship and care. Certain steps are to …
Para Español For many pet-owners, or caretakers, their animal companion is one of the most important part of their lives. Around 67% of American households keep pets (up 20% from the late 80’s). Of these, 95% consider their pets family members. With more pets as family members, the number of disputes over pet custody after …
Continue reading “Pet custody: If I play with Fido, will I stay with Fido?”
Fireworks, sparks, and loud “booms,” are part of holiday celebrations and festivities in Puerto Rico and many places all over the world. A few places have prohibited consumer use of fireworks or pyrotechnics without a permit, and others have restricted use to certain times of the year. Pyrotechnics are legal in Puerto Rico, but the …
