A shocking scene attracted the attention of the residents of Benfica in the northern zone of Rio de Janeiro this Tuesday (14). Twenty dogs, seven adults and 13 puppies, were found tied to two shopping carts in the blazing sun, without water or food. The animals suffered from hyperthermia and dehydration and had to be urgently rescued. – Photo: Disclosure/ND
The municipal Animal Welfare and Welfare Department received more than 30 reports of cruelty at the site and sent a team to check the situation. Agents determined that the dogs were in dire conditions and took them to the Fazenda Modelo Animal Welfare Center in Guaratiba, in the western zone of Rio, where they will receive all the care they need and will be available for adoption. – Photo: Disclosure/ND
The person responsible for the animals is a 52-year-old man who, according to the secretariat, has mental health problems. He refused assistance from social services who were at the scene and denied any abuse. He may be prosecuted for an offense under Law 9605/98, which, in addition to a fine, provides for a penalty of imprisonment of three months to one year. – Photo: Disclosure/ND
Animal Welfare Minister Flavio Ganem expressed regret over the case and warned of the importance of reporting cases of animal cruelty and abandonment. “The situation of these animals, crammed into two supermarket trolleys, in such heat, under the sun, is unacceptable and deplorable! It is a crime to keep animals in traps, depriving them of shade, water and food!” – he said. – Photo: Disclosure/ND
If you witness or know of any case of animal cruelty, do not remain silent. Call the call center 1746 and report this. Animals deserve respect and care. – Photo: Disclosure/ND
The dogs will receive all the care they need and will be available for adoption. – Photo: Disclosure/ND
Source: Ndmais