In a distressing incident, eight puppies were discovered abandoned by a rubbish bin in El Hierro, highlighting once again the ongoing issue of animal abandonment in the Canary Islands.
The puppies, found dehydrated and riddled with parasites, had been left in a cardboard box as if they were worthless.
The rescue was carried out by the volunteers of El Juaclo, an animal protection association, who, with no official veterinary assistance or public intervention, worked tirelessly to save the puppies, spending sleepless nights cleaning and hydrating them.
All of the puppies are now showing signs of recovery, but this is solely due to the volunteer’s dedication rather than any official aid. El Juaclo has voiced strong criticism over the absence of institutional support, stating, "We are doing this without any means or institutional backing. This incident is not an isolated case, it is a recurring issue on the island.”
El Juaclo have rescued three more litters in the past month alone, as each case of abandonment, injury, or neglect is first reported to them, not to official channels. Despite reporting these incidents to the authorities, the response remains non-existent.
The Animal Rights and Welfare Protection Act 7/2023 mandates that administrations ensure the rescue and care of abandoned or endangered animals, including veterinary resources and collaborations with animal protection entities.
However, El Juaclo's experience shows a stark contrast, with no action or accountability from them. "We are not asking for miracles; we are asking them to fulfil their legal obligations," the association said.
Day-to-day life at the shelter is a mix of sacrifice, exhaustion, and compassion. Volunteers clean, heal, feed, and comfort the animals with only their hands, time, and donations for support. "We are at our limit. We are doing the work that the local government should be doing, and we are doing it alone. But it is neither fair nor sustainable."
Official figures support this crisis. According to the Affinity Foundation Study, the Canary Islands have some of the highest rates of animal abandonment in Spain. The lack of control, minimal investment in animal welfare, and weak awareness campaigns have created a breeding ground for the silent suffering of thousands of animals.
