Mexico City sees sharp rise in animal abuse complaints

Mexico City is facing a worsening problem of animal abuse, with the Environmental and Land Management Prosecutor's Office (PAOT) reporting a sharp rise in complaints. Statistics show a near doubling of reported cases from 1,868 in 2019 to 3,861 in 2025, indicating a persistent and escalating issue.

"This increase demonstrates the persistence and even the worsening of a real and ongoing problem in the City," the PAOT stated in its official report. The agency highlighted that animal abuse, encompassing physical violence, abandonment, neglect, and overcrowding, represents a serious social problem.

Despite the high priority placed on addressing animal cruelty and abuse complaints by the Animal Attention Agency (Agatan), its capacity appears limited. Between June 2025 and June 2026, Agatan reported handling only 57 cases. This assistance primarily involved advising individuals on how to file complaints and accompanying them to the prosecutor's office to ensure proper investigation procedures.

Significant interventions have occurred, including actions at the Sonora Market involving animals sold in shops, and the safeguarding of animals from the Refugio Franciscano shelter. The legal team's role in these operations involved assessing animal conditions and filing abuse or cruelty charges when warranted, as well as securing animals from closed establishments.

The issue has also drawn public attention, such as controversial statements made by television host Pedro Sola suggesting poisoning pets. In response, local deputies have proposed initiatives to penalize the promotion of animal abuse and ensure that resources derived from the exploitation of animals benefit them directly.

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This increase demonstrates the persistence and even the worsening of a real and ongoing problem in the City.