Government Agrees Ending Electrocution is a Priority

On February 17th, Compassion without Borders, along with our Mexican partners Aprodea, met with government officials from the state of Chihuahua to discuss our plans to begin implementation of humane euthanasia in the capitol city of Chihuahua and to end electrocution throughout the state.

The meeting was very successful and included the signing of a revised comprehensive contract with the government that outlines both their and our commitment and obligations to the humane euthanasia program. Government officials also agreed to monthly meetings to discuss progression of the program. Aprodea, a local animal protection group in Juarez, also signed the agreement and will be our local supervisors for the project in Mexico.

The head of the department of health for the state also promised to feature the program at a National annual conference in June. The conference is made up of officials from across the country and the goal of the presentation will be to show Chihuahua’s program as a model state for the entire nation and to promote the end of electrocution throughout Mexico.

The meeting also touched on topics ranging from the promotion of free spay and neuter clinics across the state, to a community dog program, to preventative health services for animals such as vaccinations , deworming, and parasite control.

The receptivity of the government for our humane euthanasia program marks a turning point in our work in Mexico -- a true sign of progression. The goal of all of our programs is local sustainability and having governmental buy-in is a key feature to the success of any project we undertake. We embrace this opportunity to partner with the government  and plan to utilize the relationship to bring about maximum benefit to the animals of Mexico.

As important as the governmental participation is having local animal advocates who oversee the programs and ensure the government employees and officials are remaining true to their commitment to the animals and our programs. Having APRODEA, an incredible group of volunteer advocates in Mexico, as part of our team is an integral part of the huge successes we are having in the state of Chihuahua.