Xalapa activists demand action as animal welfare crisis deepens under Mayor Griego

Animal welfare activists and rescue groups gathered outside Xalapa’s City Hall this week to protest against the local government. The demonstration targeted what organisers called a growing crisis of animal abuse and neglect in the city. The protest came after months of frustration over the municipality’s handling of animal welfare issues. Multiple organisations had previously accused authorities of ignoring reports of dog poisonings in Xalapa. Demonstrators also claimed that the city’s Animal Health Center now lacks basic supplies and equipment for sterilisation procedures.

Activists carried signs and voiced anger over recent policy changes. They alleged that free spay-and-neuter campaigns had been cancelled without explanation. Another major concern was the new fee for veterinary consultations, which were once free for stray animals. Protesters argued that these changes made it harder to care for vulnerable pets. The crowd directed criticism at Mayor Daniela Griego, accusing her administration of failing to address the worsening situation. Many held up placards calling for urgent action to protect animals from abuse and abandonment.

The protest highlighted long-standing tensions between activists and local officials over animal welfare policies. With veterinary services now charging fees and sterilisation programmes scaled back, organisers warned that more animals could suffer. The demonstration ended with calls for the mayor to reverse the decisions and restore support for stray and abused pets.