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A new report of animal cruelty is shaking Havana: the animal protection organization Bienestar Animal Cuba, in its capital chapter, alerted this Thursday about a case at 23 and H, in Vedado, where a young dog has been stranded on the roof of a house for days, exposed to the scorching sun and rain, without water, shade, or shelter.
On its Facebook page, the organization reported that several witnesses claimed the animal is walking back and forth in despair, as if searching for a way down, in a state of abandonment that threatens its well-being and leaves it vulnerable to extreme heat and harsh weather conditions.
"It is inhumane to condemn a living being to spend its days and nights in such conditions, without the slightest care or respect for its well-being," denounced BAC-Habana, which called for citizen cooperation to identify those responsible and to demand that the dog receive care and a dignified life.
The organization reminded that "indifference also kills" and urged not to normalize these situations of cruelty, which unfortunately continue to be common in Cuba due to the lack of a real animal protection system.
The case of the abandoned puppy in Vedado is not an isolated incident, but rather a reflection of a reality that unfortunately repeats itself in Cuba. A few weeks ago, neighbors reported a dog chained up all day on a terrace, exposed to the sun and without the minimum care conditions.
Similar situations have been reported for years. In 2019, a dog was rescued after being abandoned in a building at risk of collapsing in Centro Habana, an example of how abandonment and negligence towards animals are part of a structural problem on the island.
More recently, help was requested for a little dog that was left alone on a rooftop after her owner's death, a case that once again sparked public outrage and the frustration of activists.
These episodes reflect that, although the Animal Welfare Law in Cuba came into effect in 2021, the lack of real mechanisms for protection, supervision, and sanction means that mistreatment and abandonment remain common, leaving thousands of pets in vulnerable situations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Animal Abuse in Cuba
What recent case of animal abuse has been reported in Havana?
A young puppy was found on the roof of a house in Vedado, Havana, without water or shade, exposed to the scorching sun and rain. This situation was reported by the organization Bienestar Animal Cuba, which aims to identify those responsible and ensure that the animal receives appropriate care.
How is Cuban society responding to cases of animal abuse?
Animal protection organizations, such as Bienestar Animal Cuba, are making public complaints and asking for citizen collaboration to identify those responsible. Cuban society is showing increasing indignation and mobilization in response to these cases, demanding a more effective enforcement of the Animal Welfare Law.
What does Decree-Law No. 31 on Animal Welfare in Cuba establish?
Decree-Law No. 31 prohibits keeping animals tied up or permanently immobilized without sufficient space to move, and considers acts of cruelty against animals as serious offenses. However, the enforcement of this law has been criticized for its lack of effectiveness and the structural deficiencies of the Cuban veterinary system.
Are there international initiatives to combat animal abuse in Cuba?
Yes, the organization Bienestar Animal Cuba has launched an international project aimed at extending the consequences of animal abuse beyond Cuban borders, by sending files of verified cases to consulates and immigration offices in countries with strict regulations. This project aims to create a real impact on animal protection at the international level.
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