The Cuban government acknowledged this Friday a surge in animal cruelty incidents across the nation, highlighted by the increasing number of social media posts exposing inhumane and brutal acts, some of which result in the death of the animals involved.
The National Animal Health Center admitted in a statement on its website that, despite consistent public reporting of animal abuse cases, many of these reports lack sufficient information for proper investigation and action. For complaints and reports of animal cruelty to be accepted and processed by authorities, they must meet a set of minimum requirements, the institution noted.
The complaint must include the full name of the complainant, their contact details (phone number and email), the exact location of the incident, and the affected animal species. Additionally, it should contain a descriptive summary of the incident and any evidence that could support the claim, if available. These details are crucial for the appropriate reception, verification, analysis, evaluation, and subsequent response to the reports, allowing authorities to investigate more accurately and take effective measures, the statement emphasized.
The Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Cuba, along with the National Animal Health Center, the veterinary community, and animal welfare advocates, strongly condemn actions that harm animal welfare. However, despite this public disapproval, inhumane practices continue to be a persistent issue, revealing a lack of effective control over offenders and lenient enforcement of animal welfare laws in the country.
Reporting Animal Cruelty
The institution also published contact information for reporting animal cruelty cases. “Through the 'Poblasoft' platform, complaints, reports, and suggestions can be submitted directly,” the document stated.
This statement, shared on social media by the National Animal Health Center, sparked various reactions among animal protectors. Yadira Xiomara Romero García remarked, “The rise in animal abuse that has emerged recently is ironic. There was less abuse and cruelty before the law was enacted compared to now.”
Activist Yenney Caballero pointed out, “We need a fair law that protects our animals. Fines of 3000 pesos don't stop the daily abuse. It's time to put an end to this situation that has animal protectors overwhelmed.”
Star Blue questioned, “What information are they providing? I thought this was a change in the decree, but it doesn't mention any changes. There are many requirements for reporting but nothing about changes in fines and penalties. Can someone explain what information they're giving? Because what I'm reading is nothing new.”
Yamila Delgado Rivera added, “Nothing justifies the barbarity to which animals are exposed. We need a response like in other countries where the law severely punishes such actions against animal life.”
Criticism of Animal Welfare Law
Following the enactment of the Animal Welfare Law by the regime, many protectors voiced their dissatisfaction, considering it insufficient and not stringent enough in the face of the rising wave of cruelty. Since 2021, the government has established channels for reporting animal abuse, but these measures have not effectively reduced these acts, as admitted by the regime itself in September 2024.