CDMX's animal welfare policy adds hotline to report dog waste

Mexico City's mayor announced a 10-point animal welfare plan that includes a dedicated phone line to report owners who do not pick up dog waste and proposals to strengthen penalties for dog-biting and leash violations.

At a canine and feline sterilization event in the Tláhuac borough, Mayor Clara Brugada outlined 10 proposals intended to strengthen animal welfare in Mexico City. One priority is to keep public areas free of dog feces through awareness efforts and enforcement of existing fines. The government will establish a dedicated phone line so citizens can report owners who do not pick up after their pets. Officials also noted that the capital leads the nation in dog-biting incidents and a legislator plans to submit measures to raise penalties. Key facts: - The administration will open a dedicated phone line for reports about owners who do not pick up dog waste and will enforce existing penalties. - Olivia Garza plans to submit legislation that would increase penalties for owners whose pets bite (25–36 hours of administrative arrest plus 12–18 hours of community service) and raise administrative detention for leash violations from 24 to 36 hours. - The city's pet registration system has added about 200,000 new canine registrations since October 2024, reaching roughly 300,000 registered dogs overall. - Mobile units will be sent to all 16 boroughs to register pets and provide free vaccinations. - The Animal Welfare Plan includes goals to build 100 free veterinary clinics, 200 dog parks (with 40 new parks planned this year), a shelter for 500 rescued animals, a fund for independent shelters, and a new veterinary hospital expected to open next year. Summary: The plan combines public cleanliness measures with enforcement and expanded services for pets and owners, aiming to reduce street animals and increase responsible guardianship. Planned actions include establishing the reporting hotline, deployment of mobile registration/vaccination units across boroughs, and proposed legislation to change penalties; other project timelines are outlined but detailed schedules remain undetermined at this time.