Luxembourg-based animal protection association FRIDA is urging potential pet owners to consider the lifelong commitment of adoption as shelters face growing challenges, including rising veterinary costs and overcrowded facilities.
The animal protection association FRIDA, previously known as Amiavy until March of this year, has issued an appeal to remind people that adopting a pet is a significant decision that requires careful consideration due to the long-term commitment to the animals' well-being, which includes providing proper care, nutrition, and training, among other things.
Over the last six months, FRIDA has found new homes for 22 dogs and 20 cats. Aside from helping traditional pets like cats and dogs, the association also aims at supporting farm animals like pigs, sheep, and chickens.
The small association is currently facing challenges in keeping up with its responsibilities, particularly concerning veterinary costs, with €17,000 spent between April and October. These expenses cover essential services such as spaying and neutering, as well as major surgeries like tumour removals.
Since Luxembourg's animal shelters have been operating at capacity limits for close to three years, associations like FRIDA often have to step in when pets are placed on waiting lists.
According to FRIDA volunteer Adela Fuentes, the reasons for pets being surrendered to shelters are varied, ranging from allergies to divorce, illness, relocation, financial hardships. Unfortunately, she further notes that the trend of simply discarding unwanted pets, like placing them in rubbish bins or tying them up somewhere, is noticeably growing in Luxembourg.
As an example, Fuentes cites the the story of Patapouf, an abandoned senior dog who was left alone in poor shape: The owners left him on purpose, which is prohibited by law. But, they no longer wanted him. I eventually got a call that the people got a new dog."
The association contends that while Luxembourg has well-crafted legislation in terms of animal protection, the laws are often overlooked and many offences are even swept under the carpet. In regards to that particular case, FRIDA filed a complaint.
FRIDA also steps in during more severe cases of animal mistreatment, such as those occurring on farms. Fuentes recalls a particularly troubling case in southern Luxembourg where a farmer was overwhelmed by issues on the property. The legal proceedings lasted six years, six years of suffering for the cows involved, some of which had to be put to sleep due to deteriorating health conditions.
To support its mission, the association has proposed to introduce a tax on cats similar to the existing tax on dogs, with the funds aimed at supporting animal shelters. Currently, FRIDA's financial situation is precarious; it struggles to cover veterinary bills for those in vulnerable circumstances. Nevertheless, the association remains committed to helping find new homes for animals that can no longer stay with their current families.
