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Mexico City Defends Court-Ordered Seizure at Refugio Franciscano, Unveils Shelter Oversight Plan

Officials say 858 dogs receive 24-hour veterinary care across three sites after inspectors documented neglect plus a clandestine incinerator.

Overview

  • The FGJ-CDMX and Mayor Clara Brugada presented photos and forensic findings citing overcrowding, infestations, contaminated food, untreated lesions, and an irregular crematorium at the refuge.
  • Authorities report 858 dogs in government custody: 304 at Ajusco, 371 at the Brigada de Vigilancia Animal in Xochimilco, and 183 at a temporary Utopía in Gustavo A. Madero, with round-the-clock veterinary teams and individual clinical files.
  • Refugio Franciscano and supporters label the operation a despojo, reference federal amparos they say require the animals’ return, and allege post-rescue mistreatment including dogs kept in carriers.
  • Brugada denies any real-estate motive, says the city is not part of the civil dispute over the property, and pledges no authorization for development on the contested parcel.
  • The city outlines next steps: a draft law to regulate shelters with a mandatory registry, a new large shelter and a dedicated Utopía canina, a new veterinary hospital, and upcoming adoption drives, while investigations remain open.