MÉRIDA, YUCATAN — Mayor Cecilia Patrón Laviada presented a comprehensive new Regulation for Fauna Protection and Welfare before Mérida’s Advisory Council for Animal Protection, aiming to establish a modernized legal framework that promotes responsible pet ownership and safeguards all sentient beings. The municipal initiative seeks to clarify legal procedures, recognize the work of local animal shelters and independent rescuers, and formalize coordination between city authorities, academic institutions, and civil society. The initiative builds on ongoing local efforts spearheaded by the Environment and Animal Welfare Unit (UMABA) and the Animal Protection Unit (UPA). Authorities have also addressed over 2,300 animal cruelty reports, rescued nearly 700 abandoned animals, and facilitated over 300 pet adoptions. With this new regulation, local officials aim to solidify animal protection as a permanent public policy.