The plight of abandoned animals in Portugal is a stark and unfortunate reality, one that highlights a deep-rooted issue within society. This issue, as Sandra Duarte Cardoso, a veterinary surgeon and president of SOS Animal, puts it, is a serious problem of "civic education" in our relationship with animals. It's a problem that has led to a normalization of abandonment, with people viewing animals as possessions, disposable when they no longer serve a purpose.
Ziro and Mike's stories are heart-wrenching examples of this. These two animals, who spent their lives as companions to their elderly owners, were left to fend for themselves on the streets when their owners passed away. Their future was decided by relatives who chose to abandon them, a decision that led to Ziro's severe injuries and Mike's untimely death.
The Legal Battle
While abandoning an animal is a crime in Portugal, punishable by law, the reality is often different. Sandra Duarte Cardoso has fought numerous battles to protect animals, but justice is not always served. The microchipping law, introduced to combat abandonment, is often ignored, and the administrative offense is issued in the name of the deceased owner, making it difficult to hold anyone accountable.
A Seasonal Problem
The situation worsens during the summer months. With people traveling on holiday, the number of abandonment cases spikes. It's a stark contrast to how we treat our human children; no one would consider leaving their child behind, yet animals are seen as disposable.
The Post-Pandemic Effect
The post-pandemic period has revealed a lack of commitment from many pet owners. With more time at home during Covid, people adopted animals without considering the future. As routines returned to normal, many of these adopted pets were returned to shelters, highlighting a lack of responsibility and understanding of the commitment required.
Financial Factors
The rising cost of veterinary care is another factor contributing to the issue. People often let their animals suffer due to financial constraints, unable to afford treatment or sterilization. This leads to a cycle of abandonment and suffering, with animals reaching breaking points and owners making difficult decisions based on their financial situations.
A Call for Action
Sandra Duarte Cardoso emphasizes the need for a national strategy, one that includes the islands and addresses this agonizing problem. She proposes compulsory sterilization of dogs and cats, with financial support for those in need. This measure, already implemented in countries like Greece, Belgium, Spain, Austria, and Germany, could help reduce the number of abandoned animals.
Conclusion
The normalization of animal abandonment in Portugal is a complex issue, rooted in our perception of animals as possessions. It's a problem that requires a cultural shift and a commitment from both individuals and the state. As Sandra Duarte Cardoso says, "We need to care more about quality than quantity" when it comes to animal adoption and welfare. This issue is a reflection of our society's values and our responsibility towards these vulnerable creatures.
