The work team of the Animal Rights Program (PRADA) presented the project for the creation of the Rafaela Animal Protection Brigade to the Secretary of Government and Modernization, Germán Bottero, with the aim of formalizing its establishment and implementation in the municipality. This step represents a fundamental advancement in the defense and protection of animal rights in the city of the province of Santa Fe.
The Rafaela Animal Rights Program (PRADA) of the Municipality of Rafaela continues to develop essential projects to improve the quality of life of animals in the city.
In this sense, Licenciada Graciela Maubé and Abogada Valeria Brunone presented to the Secretary of Government and Modernization, Germán Bottero, the project of the Rafaela Animal Protection Brigade with the aim of jointly moving forward with its implementation.
The creation of this brigade aims to intervene in cases of animal abuse and cruelty, as well as in emergencies, environmental disasters, and incidents requiring the rescue and assistance of animals. Additionally, it will act in situations of animal exploitation, illegal sales in dog and cat breeding facilities, and in cases of possession and illicit trade of wildlife.
Actions and objectives of the Rafaela Animal Protection Brigade
The brigade’s actions are framed within the prevention of crimes provided for in Criminal Law No. 14,346 against Acts of Abuse and Cruelty to Animals, as well as ensuring compliance with municipal ordinances related to animal protection.
Among its main objectives, the Rafaela Animal Protection Brigade seeks to promote respect for animal rights, promoting awareness and compliance with regulations. Act promptly to protect the lives of animals in situations of violence or risk. Provide effective responses to citizen complaints regarding animal protection. Hold accountable those who fail to comply with current regulations. Protect wildlife and biodiversity and build a more just and compassionate society towards all forms of life.
Coordinated work and specialized training
This unit will be composed of PRADA staff and the Zoonosis Directorate and will operate in coordination with Public Control and the GUR of the Municipality of Rafaela, Police, Firefighters, and Volunteer Firefighters. All members will receive training in Animal Law, Animal Welfare, and current national, provincial, and local regulations.
Interventions will be carried out in response to reports received at the nearest police station, the Regional Prosecutor’s Office 5 of Rafaela (Necochea 443, 03492 453562, [email protected]), or the investigating judge’s office (Buenos Aires 168).
In cases of animal abuse, the Brigade will act urgently to rescue animals at risk, issue the corresponding reports, and, in case of crimes, refer the proceedings to the prosecutor’s office.
The rescued animals will be taken to Zoonosis for veterinary care and subsequently transferred to temporary shelters until their situation is resolved, prioritizing responsible adoption.
At this point, the Brigade will collaborate with NGOs and animal rights activists to ensure a suitable home for each rescued animal. As for wildlife, it will be transferred by the Environmental Police of the Province of Santa Fe to specialized rehabilitation centers.
PRADA: a cornerstone in defending animal rights
For the local Government, it is a priority to create spaces for exchange that, respecting different perspectives, allow progress in animal welfare policies, prevention of abuse, and promotion of responsible ownership.
The Animal Rights Program, under the Institute of Sustainable Development of Rafaela, collaborates with civil society and various institutions to strengthen spaces for dialogue and cooperation in defense of animals.
Through strong collaboration with the community and different institutions, it has established itself as a cornerstone in defending animal rights, promoting policies to prevent abuse, responsible ownership, and awareness.
Cover photo: Crisanta Espinosa Aguilar
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