On 4th October, St. Francis’ day, we celebrated the animals and their unconditional love for their family. Unfortunately, however, the situation regarding domestic animals in Italy, especially cats and dogs, is nothing short of dramatic.
“On the day of San Francesco, animals are celebrated but, let’s face it, there is little to celebrate”. These are the chilling words of Carla Rocchinational president of the National Animal Protection Agency (Enpa).
According to the data collected by the institution, from January to September 2022 there are 17,585 dogs guests in the Enpa e 39.752 gatti cared for between catteries and feline colonies. On the other hand, adoptions are in sharp decline.
Why such an abandonment of animals in Italy?
After the increase in adoptions during the Coronavirus pandemic, the main reason for the sale and abandonment of dogs and cats is to economic nature.
The employees and volunteers of kennels and catteries say that people are giving up their animals to shelters due to the inability to meet the expenses necessary to guarantee them proper living conditions.
The petition of the Enpa
Faced with such difficulties, there are unfortunately those who do not feel like turning to the volunteers of the shelters. For this reason, the abandonment of dogs and cats increase more and more: Enpa has seen 15% of pet sales to its own structures.
To support the less affluent owners who, despite the economic difficulties, do not want to part with their four-legged friend, the Enpa has launched a petition for the 10% VAT reduction on pet food and veterinary expenses.
In fact, since the beginning of the year, the institution it has helped more than 1000 families in need through the dedicated project Enpa Solidarity Network.
“Let us make ourselves heard and invite everyone we know to sign the petition to the Italian government for the reduction of VAT to 10% for the cost of food and veterinary services. Families must be helped immediately. This is why there is no time to waste ยป, concludes Carla Rocchi.
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