Census

For the first time, since the Municipality of San Cristóbal assumed its competence over the regulation of urban fauna, and after coordination with local and international institutions, the animal population census will finally take place in the Island.

The census, which will be focused mainly on dogs and cats, will also have as an objective to implant identification chips on 100% of dogs.

THE CENSUS REPRESENTS A MILESTONE FOR THE ADMINISTRATION.

START DATE
Monday, June 24, 2024
TIMES
Monday through Friday from 17:00 to 20:00
DURATION
Approximately 60 days
METHODOLOGY
House by house personal visit. Complete inventory to 100% of houses.
CHIP IMPLANT DEADLINE
45 days after culmination of the census. Sept. 13 tentatively.

Why a census and microchipping campaign?

Knowing the exact number of dogs and cats on the island allows for informed decision-making, enabling efficiency in the use of time and resources both by the local government and by the international organizations collaborating in this area.

GOODBYE TO ILLEGAL TRAFFICKING AND BREEDING OF PUREBRED DOGS.

Having 100% of dogs properly identified with a microchip allows the Municipal GAD to effectively control urban fauna locally and especially to combat the illegal introduction and breeding of purebred dogs.

In a second phase, campaigns for the microchipping of cats will be carried out.

The census represents:

Data for planning, including heat maps and georeferences
Efficiency in operational controls of the Municipality
Identification of illegal introduction of purebred animals
Identification of illegal breeding
Identification of animal abuse
Official recognition by the local administration of dogs and cats

Message for the community: The chip will be implanted in dogs during the census visit. If for any reason your dog could not be chipped, a grace period of 45 days will be given after the census ends to coordinate your visit to the chip implantation point designated by the Municipal GAD.

Participating Organizations:

You will be able to identify our house by house teams with the following attire:

Frequently Asked Questions

Why a chip?

The microchip is the most widely used and scientifically endorsed tool for identifying family animals. Without a chip, there is no control of urban fauna, and uncontrolled animals have serious consequences for the community, endemic species, tourism, and consequently local familie’s economies.

Does the microchip hurt or have consequences?

No, the microchip is no larger than a grain of rice, and its placement is quick and painless.

What if I wasn't home during the census and didn't get my dog chipped?

There will be a time period (45 days) for families who couldn’t be present during the census visits to coordinate the placement of the microchip. During that time frame no sanctions will be implemented.

What is the deadline for chipping my dog?

September 13 will be the last day to get the chip implanted after the census. Any changes to these deadlines will be announced in advance.

Are there consequences if I don't want to chip my dog or provide information about the animals I live with?

By ordinance, it is mandatory to provide information and allow the urban fauna unit to work. Non-compliance is considered an infraction and will be duly sanctioned.

What other benefits are there to chipping?

Quick identification in case of loss or accident.
Free care at the World Vets clinic.
Inclusion in the official register of responsibly kept dogs.

How does uncontrolled urban fauna affect endemic species?

Dogs and cats have a direct impact on the health of several endemic species populations, some of which are classified as vulnerable by the IUCN. Early this year 2024, a dog attack killed over a dozen sea lion pups, demonstrating the irreversible consequences of not adhering to municipal regulations. This census and the dog microchipping will mark a new beginning in responsible coexistence on the island.

How does uncontrolled urban fauna affect human health?

The tipping over of trash cans and street contamination with feces can cause diseases. Specifically, the pulverization of feces after sun exposure causes them to break down into small particles that are then carried by the wind to our respiratory tracts. The tipping over of organic waste bins is a common problem in San Cristóbal neighborhoods. Urban fauna animals rummaging through trash and then returning home can bring dangerous bacteria and diseases into the community. Children are the most vulnerable in such situations that we must avoid.

How does the lack of animal control affect neighborhood coexistence?

Uneducated and loose dogs attack motorcycles, pedestrians and can produce constant noise. Practicing responsible coexistence is an act of consideration towards your neighbors.

We are counting on your cooperation for the 2024 Census.
Together we make Responsible Coexistence a reality in San Cristóbal!

The booklet

The booklet’s content includes the most important rules of the ordinance. Additionally, it provides fundamental health recommendations, the benefits of sterilization, urban myths, an analysis of animal violence as a warning for social violence, and recommendations in the field of family animal nutrition.

The next galapagueño member of your family is waiting here for you

Here, you will find the rescued animals that are seeking for a new home. You can even bring it to your country if the selection process is succesfull.