Animal rights | Association clarifies stand on IACM, Canidrome partnership

A greyhound receives amedical treatment at the Canidrome

Anima Macau’s responsibilities within the Yat Yuen (Macau) Canidrome relate primarily to the control works of managing a kennel, in particular, the coordination of all cleaning staff and animal handlers, the organization clarified in a statement yesterday.

According to the animal rights group president, Albano Martins, any veterinary clinic work is under the responsibilities of a private clinic that has reached an agreement with the Canidrome.

Facilitated by IACM, the bureau is also responsible for fixed sterilization deadlines.

As per the agreement between the Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau (IACM) and the Canidrome, the sterilizations must be made within 60 days and inside the facilities of the Canidrome, and the process should start immediately.

“Anima has nothing to do with this agreement and does not oppose it. However, Anima makes clear that if its opinion had been [heard], it would be slightly different from the one agreed upon,” said Martins, adding that the sterilization and desexing process should take place “calmly.”

“Anima also understands that if the idea is to use only the facilities of the Canidrome, [it is] hardly [likely that] this process will be finished within the 60 days,” said Martins.

Anima suggested that the animals could leave the Canidrome and be sterilized in several other clinics.

“Anima respects the agreement reached between the parties and believes that the health of no animal will be jeopardized by this accelerated process,” he added.

Martins then lamented the negative statements made by Zoe Tang, shelter manager of Anima, to the Chinese press. Following his comments, Tang has not reported for work over the past few days, Martins told the Times yesterday.

These controversial statements included complaints regarding the procedures of IACM and the Canidrome in regards to handling the remaining 533 greyhounds.

“Anima is sorry for what has happened and hopes that this kind of attitude will not create any more problems in this final course when we are concentrating on solving the problems of the greyhounds in Macau,” he said.

Anima has been in partnership with the Canidrome and under the supervision of the IACM since August 1, taking care of the 533 greyhounds that are in Canidrome for a period of 60 days. LV