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Date Published: 10/02/2025

Over 100 pet owners in Murcia on waiting list to surrender animals amid growing concerns over abandonment

The Municipal Zoonosis Centre is facing a mounting backlog of owners wishing to relinquish their pets

In Murcia city, more than 100 pet owners are currently waiting to surrender their animals to the Municipal Zoonosis Centre, a rise that reflects the troubling increase in pet abandonment in the Region.

The Zoonosis Centre, which manages and controls animal populations, has been inundated with requests. The waiting list highlights the centre’s limited capacity to accommodate the growing number of animals being given up by their owners.

A variety of factors are contributing to this rise in pet abandonment. Economic difficulties have made it increasingly challenging for some owners to afford pet care, leading them to make the difficult decision to part with their animals. Furthermore, a lack of understanding about the responsibilities of pet ownership has led some individuals to acquire pets without fully grasping the long-term commitment involved.

The consequences of this trend are significant. Overcrowded shelters are struggling to provide adequate care for the rising number of animals, putting the welfare of these pets at risk. Abandoned animals can also pose a public health threat, potentially spreading diseases or causing accidents.

To tackle this issue, local authorities and animal welfare organisations are encouraging pet owners to explore alternatives to abandonment. They advise reaching out to animal support groups, looking into rehoming options, or utilising community resources designed to assist pet owners in need.

Public education campaigns are also being prioritised to raise awareness among both current and prospective pet owners about the responsibilities involved in caring for an animal. By promoting responsible pet ownership and offering support to those facing difficulties, the community aims to reduce the number of abandoned pets and improve outcomes for both animals and people.

Image: Bruno Cervera/Pexels

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