CIUDAD JUAREZ, Chihuahua – Seven dogs were euthanized by the Directorate of Animal Care and Welfare after they attacked and killed a man on the morning of Monday, April 13, in Ciudad Juarez. The decision came after the animals underwent a mandatory observation period to rule out diseases and analyze the reasons for their aggressive behavior, as reported by El Diario de Juárez.
Euthanasia Protocol Followed by Authorities
Alma Arredondo, head of the Directorate of Animal Care and Welfare, clarified that euthanasia was a necessary step in this case because the dogs were deemed unsuitable for adoption due to their involvement in a fatal incident. The protocol, mandated by the Ministry of Health, requires a minimum ten-day observation period to check for rabies before euthanasia can be performed.
The tragic event occurred on a property located behind the municipal slaughterhouse, at the intersection of Iztaccíhuatl and Privada de Loma Azul, in the Eréndira neighborhood.
“We are obliged to do this, to keep them under observation to rule out any disease that might have caused them to react in that way, and subsequently, once the observation period is over, euthanasia is applied,” Arredondo stated.
Owner Not Penalized Due to Social Condition
The owner of the dogs, identified as a homeless individual, will not face financial penalties. Arredondo explained, “A fine can certainly be applied, but the truth is that the chances of this person paying it are minimal because they are a homeless person; all of that is taken into account.”
Ongoing Issue with Stray Dog Packs in Ciudad Juarez
Throughout 2026, the Directorate has conducted 151 visits to 71 neighborhoods across the city to address reports of stray dog packs, some requiring repeated interventions. Areas with a significant presence of these packs include Santa Rosa, San Antonio, Anáhuac, Chaveña, Corregidora, Fronteriza, Independencia I and II, Jardines del Aeropuerto, San Ángel, Hermenegildo Galeana, Arroyo Colorado, Altavista, Pánfilo Natera, Del Safari I and II, Monumental, and Rancho Anapra. Operations were also reported in Lomas de Poleo, Riberas del Bravo, El Papalote, El Sauzal, Parajes del Sol, Eco 2000, Toribio Ortega, Linda Vista, Águilas de Zaragoza, Azteca, Rincones de Salvárcar, Terrenos Nacionales, Pradera de los Oasis, Oasis Revolución, and the Industrial zone.
Arredondo emphasized the importance of community cooperation, encouraging residents to accompany operatives to help identify owned animals versus strays, which aids in capture and control efforts. Reports can be made via WhatsApp at 656-554-3391 or directly at the DABA facilities.
Public Health and Safety Concerns
The incident highlights the persistent challenges faced by Ciudad Juarez authorities in managing its stray dog population and ensuring public safety. While the immediate threat from this particular pack has been neutralized, the broader issue of uncontrolled dog populations in various neighborhoods remains a significant concern for residents and local government alike.
The rigorous adherence to health protocols, such as the ten-day observation period, underscores the commitment to public health, especially concerning potential rabies transmission, even in tragic circumstances like this fatal attack.
The Directorate of Animal Care and Welfare continues its efforts to control and manage dog populations through various initiatives, including community engagement and direct intervention, to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Source: https://www.infobae.com/mexico/2026/04/15/sacrifican-a-siete-perros-de-una-jauria-que-asesinaron-a-hombre-en-ciudad-juarez/
