Cuenca Rescues Dogs And Cats Being Sold At Feria Libre
Cuenca Expat Staff
Cuenca’s animal-welfare enforcement is back at Feria Libre, this time over dogs and cats being sold in poor conditions.
Officials reported the seizure of 15 dogs and cats that were being sold at the market. The operation involved the Patrulla Canina and Guardia Ciudadana under the city ordinance on urban fauna and companion animals.
What Officials Found
During the operation, several puppies were found hidden in sacks and cardboard boxes, in conditions officials said compromised their health and welfare.
The rescued animals are expected to receive veterinary evaluations. After the corresponding procedures, they are to enter a responsible-adoption program.
The Bigger Pattern
The city’s environmental-management commission says that so far in 2026, the Patrulla Canina has rescued more than 70 puppies intended for sale at Feria Libre.
The useful reminder for residents is blunt: selling companion animals is prohibited under the municipal ordinance. If you want to adopt, the safer route is through a formal adoption process, not a street-market sale.
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