Calls to include animal shelters and scientists in La Palma's Animal Welfare Board

The political group demands that the island body integrates technical knowledge and social experience for effective management.

Microphone on a podium during an institutional meeting.
IA

Microphone on a podium during an institutional meeting.

The political group Drago La Palma has formally requested that the upcoming Island Animal Welfare Board of the Cabildo de La Palma include representatives from animal shelters and conservation experts.

The proposal aims to ensure that wildlife management on the island is addressed from a comprehensive perspective. According to the group, it is essential to combine the field work of associations with scientific rigor to protect both domestic animals and the endemic biodiversity of La Palma.
Various studies, including those conducted by Cabildo specialists, warn about the negative impact of feral cats on native species. Therefore, they argue that the debate should not be limited to a simplistic confrontation, but rather based on responsibility and ecological knowledge.

"An animal welfare board without the associations makes no sense, but neither does a board that ignores the ecological reality of an island like La Palma."

a spokesperson for the political group
The group highlights the historical work of entities such as AANIPAL, Benawara, and APROA, which have sustained animal rescue and care with insufficient resources. They also criticize the fact that the island shelter remains unbuilt after more than 15 years of public promises.