Cuenca Community Updates: Free Pet Rabies Shots, New Reading Circle, and Upcoming Debates

Overview

Cuenca residents have several practical community activities and civic events scheduled across the city. The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) is holding a pet vaccination drive, the University of Cuenca is launching an adult reading initiative, and public debates are set for local political candidates.

Confirmed details

The Ministerio de Salud Pública (MSP) will provide free rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats this Saturday at the Centro de Convenciones del Mall del Río. The drive runs from 10:00 to 15:00, offering local pet owners an accessible venue for routine preventive care.

In addition, the University of Cuenca is starting its first Círculo de Lectura aimed at people over 50 years old. This new reading circle grew out of the university's ‘Territorios de Lectura’ project to foster community engagement and discussion among older adults.

For those following local political developments, the debates for candidates running for Prefect of Azuay and Mayor of Cuenca are officially scheduled for November 20. The event will take place at the Pumapungo theater.

Background

Beyond these initiatives, local institutions continue to host specialized events throughout the city. For example, the first Expo Notafilia Cuenca 2026 opened on Thursday in the coworking space of the Instituto Tecnoempresarial Wissen, displaying paper currency and historical documents. Looking ahead to next month, more than 40 entrepreneurs across various sectors are set to participate in the G&G feria on December 5 and 6, located at the parque Virgen del Milagro near the Ciudad de Cuenca high school.

What This Means for Expats

These local activities provide straightforward opportunities for foreign residents to connect with the wider community. Expats with pets can take advantage of the free health services at Mall del Río, while older residents interested in literature can participate in the university's new reading program.

Sources: cuencahighlife.com.

Image: AI-generated editorial illustration; not a documentary depiction of the events reported.