The management of urban wildlife and the protection of domestic animals in southern Spain continues to show signs of change. During the first half of this year, Sadeco's Animal Welfare Service has been quite busy, caring for a total of 708 animals at municipal facilities in Córdoba. Although this number may seem high at first glance, it actually represents a slight improvement compared to the 729 records that were recorded during the same time period last year.
This positive outcome is largely due to citizen engagement and the effectiveness of the various awareness campaigns that have been launched. In this regard, official data indicate that [number of] [numbers] have been collected 506 abandoned animalsThis figure, while still significant, is lower than the 518 cases opened in the first half of 2025. It seems that families in Cordoba are beginning to see that having a pet is not a passing whim, but a lifelong commitment.
Prevention and new protection regulations
Since it was launched New Animal Welfare Law in SpainThings have changed a bit in the way the center works. Now, each case of surrender by owners is scrutinized, limiting these admissions to duly justified situations of vulnerability through reports. The aim is to prevent people from giving up at the first sign of trouble and to encourage them to seek responsible alternatives before leaving an animal at the municipal center.
Furthermore, with the arrival of warmer weather and increased travel, there is greater emphasis on the need to plan vacations with our furry family members in mind. The idea that An animal is another member of the household. It's the central theme of summer campaigns, reminding us that changes in routine shouldn't be an excuse for neglect. It's about using a little imagination and responsibility so that our pets don't suffer the consequences of our lack of foresight.
The unfinished business: the microchip
One of the biggest hurdles that workers and veterinarians face continues to be the identification of incoming animals. It's quite striking that almost all 85% of the income lacks a microchip or their contact information is outdated. This is a major problem because it makes it extremely difficult to locate the original owners if the animal has simply wandered off, thus slowing down its return home.
Regarding the capacity of the facilities, occupancy remains fairly stable, allowing the veterinary team to work with relative ease. Currently, the average number of animals taken in is has dropped to 334 copies, making it easier to perform tasks Pet sterilization as a fundamental pillar on-site treatment is provided to more than three-quarters of the residents. This not only improves the animals' health but also avoids having to refer cases to external clinics, thus optimizing public resources.
Adoptions and control of feline populations
If there's one piece of data that inspires optimism, it's people's response to adoption. 89,75% of the animals taken in They end up finding a new opportunity, either with families who decide to expand their homes or through partner shelters that act as intermediaries. In round numbers, this means that 170 animals have left with a new family, while another 119 have continued their journey to the pet adoption to boost their well-being through specialized entities.
On the other hand, we cannot forget the work being done with cats on the streets. The well-known TNR (Trap, Neuter, Return) method is bearing fruit, with nearly 350 feline colonies under control throughout the municipality. Thanks to the collaboration of volunteers, veterinarians and the town council itself, more than 7.000 cats have been dewormed and vaccinated, guaranteeing a much healthier and more balanced coexistence between residents and stray cats.
The comprehensive management being carried out in Córdoba demonstrates that, although the road is long, the right steps are being taken to reduce abandonment and improve life of domestic animals. The decrease in the length of stay of lost animals and the high success rate in adoptions reflect a system that works, but which still needs owners to remain vigilant with identification and daily commitment.
