Dear Sir:

The World Society for the Protection of Animals is working with eight non-profit animal protection groups in Puerto Rico to strengthen their capacity and improve animal welfare on the island.  Our mission is to build a unified global animal welfare movement to create a world where animal cruelty ends and animal welfare matters. This can only be accomplished with your support.

We are writing to ask that you, as Governor of Puerto Rico, take strong and immediate action to address longstanding animal welfare issues, and that you investigate and prosecute those responsible for the most recent cases of animal cruelty involving the pets thrown off the Paseo del Indio Bridge. The WSPA condemns these cruel acts of violence, which caused animals and the people who care about them great suffering. 

Scientific studies prove that people who commit violence against animals are five times more likely to commit crimes against people and property. By prosecuting those who commit animal cruelty to the full extent of the law and strengthening existing laws, you will be taking dangerous criminals off the streets, protecting not only animals, but residents of Puerto Rico and tourists alike.

Like many Puerto Ricans, tourists care deeply about the compassionate and humane treatment of companion animals. They would be horrified if they knew how little your government is doing to humanely address the suffering of satos and other animals who are routinely abandoned, and too often, maliciously attacked and killed.  The international animal welfare community is willing to advise and support local groups who are working hard to save the lives of animals and reduce their suffering. But we cannot do it without your commitment to seriously address animal welfare issues in a way that will create lasting, positive change for animals in Puerto Rico.

Please consider making Puerto Rico a better place for people and animals by joining us in condemning animal cruelty, and more importantly, taking immediate, decisive action to improve the welfare of satos and other animals on your beautiful island. 

Thank you for your time and consideration. 

Sincerely,

Allan Kornberg         Patrick O'Marr
Regional Director    WSPA Regional Director
WSPA-USA               Central America, Mexico, the Caribbean and Argentina

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