Cancun, Q.R. — Mayor Ana Paty Peralta has appointed a new acting director for the city’s animal shelter. Peralta says veterinarian René Olivares Pérez has been appointed as Acting Director of Animal Protection and Welfare.
His appointment was made following the dismissal of Yamili Góngora, the former head of the department. Góngora was let go after the mishandling of a health emergency at municipal facilities.
Without providing details, Cancun City Council said that incident is in the process of being reported to the Attorney General’s Office for legal follow-up. The city also said they have started a complete restructuring of the centre.
“Animal welfare is a priority for this government. Therefore, we have begun a complete restructuring of the Centre, with the support—for the first time—of a foundation specializing in animal rescue with the goal of ensuring transparency, professionalism, and a fundamental change in its operation,” Mayor Peralta explained.
The changes were made at the Cancun animal shelter after several animal welfare associations and activists denounced a mass killing (exact figures unknown) of cats and dogs.
The animals were allegedly put down without veterinary protocols or legal authorization and in complete violation of public health and animal welfare regulations. There are also allegations that the animals were put down without being given a chance at adoption.
Peralta said from the first moment she became aware of the health emergency at the facilities, she made the immediate decision to remove the now-former director from her position as well as the staff directly responsible for the care of the animals.
She added that the corresponding complaints will also be filed with the competent authorities so that investigations can be carried out and, if necessary, the corresponding sanctions imposed according to the law.
“We are building a new era for animal welfare in Cancun based on collaboration, results and accountability. Therefore, we will operate with open doors.
“Only by uniting our will and capabilities will we achieve a dignified, transparent, and humane Animal Welfare Centre worthy of the love and respect that Cancún residents have for their pets,” she said.
