The illegal sale of puppies on the streets of Quito continues to raise concerns among authorities and the public. The phenomenon, far from being an isolated incident, highlights a deeper problem of animal abuse and lack of control over dog breeding, especially in crowded areas such as the area surrounding La Carolina Park.
Recently, an operation carried out by the Animal Welfare Unit (UBA) and the Metropolitan Control Agency (AMC) culminated in an exemplary sanction. a man who was trying to sell two puppies of a similar breed to Husky on the street. The case has brought to light the exploitative conditions to which many females are subjected, used solely as sales tools.
How the illegal sale was detected and what was the penalty?
The intervention was made possible thanks to a citizen alert on May 15., when a witness observed the puppies being transported in a backpack and put up for sale on the street. The immediate reaction of the UBA led to the organization of an undercover operation, in which an inspector pretended to be a buyer to gather evidence. The seller was asking 120 dollars for each puppy, evidence captured on video that facilitated the action in flagrante.
The AMC imposed a fine of USD 4.700, equivalent to 10 unified basic salaries, as established by the Municipal Code for those who sell animals in public spaces. This is a very serious offense, intended to discourage this practice and protect animal welfare.
The covert intervention allowed not only to identify the crime but also rescue the two puppies and their mother, who was locked for hours in a nearby vehicle, used solely as a "certificate" of the breed for potential clients. This situation highlighted the undignified conditions and mistreatment to which the adult dog, who was subsequently named Kiara, was subjected.
Fate of animals and new opportunities
After the rescue, the UBA proceeded with medical evaluation, veterinary care and sterilization. of the three dogs. The animals were subsequently placed for responsible adoption, ensuring they could live in a caring and protective environment.
The story of the mother, now known as Kiara, reflects the change that timely intervention can bring. Currently, lives with an adoptive family and has left exploitative conditions behind. Her new life, far from abandonment, is shared on the Instagram account @kiara_ec_, showing the importance of adoption over irresponsible purchasing.
This case has served as an example to raise awareness among more citizens about the hidden reality behind street animal sales, where females are often exploited through continuous pregnancies, without rest or health checks.
Operations, sanctions and critical areas
The fight against illegal puppy sales has intensified in Quito during 2025. The Animal Welfare Unit has carried out 87 interventions in the first half of the year alone, finding that the Las Cuadras and El Quinche markets are the main locations where this practice is repeated.
For its part, the Metropolitan Control Agency has issued 45 sanctioning resolutions, accumulating more than USD 220.000 in fines. The focus on these actions seeks to reduce these cases and raise awareness. in those who still consider purchasing animals on public roads as a valid option.
Authorities insist that this type of trade should not be encouraged and remind us that, behind every puppy sold without control or regulation, there are usually stories of Abuse, lack of veterinary care and unsanitary conditions.
