Animal Abuse in Panama: An Urgent Call to Action

The law establishes that municipalities must create programs to promote animal welfare, train the population on responsible pet ownership and carry out sterilization and vaccination campaigns. 

In Panama, eight out of ten people have pets, according to data from companies consulted.  However, the reality for many animals is much bleaker, with more than 500,000 domestic animals homeless and abandoned.  Rescuers urgently call on elected mayors to enforce the law and take effective measures to address this crisis. 

The scene of hungry dogs and cats desperately searching for food in the trash has become all too common.  These animals, with their visible ribs and sad eyes are a testament to the suffering and neglect they face daily.  Many of them have open wounds or limp due to untreated illnesses or injuries, further evidence of the violence and abuse they suffer.  Since 2012, Law 70 for the protection of domestic animals prohibits animal abuse in Panama.  However, cases of cruelty and neglect continue to increase.  Between 2021 and 2023, the Superior Prosecutor’s Office Specialized in Environmental Crimes received 591 complaints of animal abuse.  As of April 2024, 58 additional complaints had already been registered.  On social media, thousands more cases are reported by concerned citizens. 

Organizations and rescuers deal with these complaints daily, trying to save animals in deplorable conditions.  Despite their efforts, enforcement of the laws has been insufficient.  The funds necessary to implement sterilization programs and vaccination campaigns are scarce, and the lack of commitment from the authorities is evident.  The situation is particularly serious in the districts with the highest population density, such as La Chorrera, Arraijan, San Miguelito and Panama City.  These municipalities should be the first to implement animal welfare programs, but the reality is that the abuse and abandonment of animals continues uncontrolled. 

Law 70 establishes penalties of up to four years in prison for those who cause death or serious injury to an animal.  However, authorities have shown little interest in enforcing this law.  So far, only three people have been convicted of crimes against domestic animals, despite the numerous complaints received. 

Animal abuse should not be seen as an isolated problem.  Experts in psychology and criminology warn that violence against animals can be a precursor to broader violence in society.  Ignoring this problem is ignoring a symptom of a greater evil that affects our community.  Let’s raise our voices, denounce, participate and demand change.  The protection of animals is everyone’s responsibility and we cannot allow abuse and abandonment to continue.  It is time for the authorities to fulfill their duty and guarantee dignified treatment for all animals in Panama.