Portugal’s biggest dog rescue nears 400 animals

The largest companion animal rescue operation ever recorded in Portugal has expanded significantly after rescuers discovered a further area containing around 50 dogs at a property in Amarante, in the north of Portugal.

The number of animals removed from the site is believed to have risen to approximately 400, according to Associação Midas which is assisting in the rescue operation.

The rescue began following a complaint received by animal rights organisation IRA, which alerted authorities to reports of hundreds of dogs, including numerous puppies, allegedly being kept in poor conditions and exploited for breeding and commercial sale.

Animal welfare association Midas, based in the Matosinhos municipality, said initial estimates suggested there were between 250 and 300 dogs on the property. However, as teams searched the premises, more animals were found hidden in different areas.

“What was thought to be 250 to 300 animals has already increased to around 400 because more and more dogs are being discovered in every corner,” the association said.

The operation involves coordination between IRA, the GNR, the Directorate-General for Food and Veterinary Affairs (DGAV), and several animal welfare groups.

The scale of the operation has placed enormous pressure on animal shelters and rescue organisations across the country.

IRA – Intervenção e Resgate Animal described the rescue as unprecedented.

“There is no record of a rescue involving so many companion animals in Portugal to date,” the organisation said.

IRA warned that “no single organisation has the capacity to accommodate over 300 animals within 24 hours” without assistance from other associations and independent animal protectors.

The group has issued an urgent appeal for foster homes and temporary accommodation for the rescued dogs, while also seeking financial support to cover veterinary treatment, food and boarding costs in canine hotels. Email [email protected] if you can help with accommodation or see below to donate.

Animal welfare organisations have also renewed calls for prospective pet owners to adopt rather than buy animals from commercial breeders.

“Do not support these businesses,” Midas said in its appeal. “Don’t buy. Adopt.”

Authorities have not yet released details regarding possible criminal proceedings, while investigations into the conditions in which the animals were being kept remain ongoing.

The rescue operation is expected to continue as teams work to locate and remove any remaining dogs from the property.

To support IRA’s rescue efforts, donate here:

NIB: 0010 0000 57314920001 30

IBAN: PT50 0010 0000 57314920001 30

BANK: BPI

SWIFT: BBPIPTPL

ACCOUNT HOLDER: NÚCLEO DE INTERVENÇÃO E RESGATE ANIMAL.

Or

Paypal: Paypal.me/IRANIMAL

Or

Mbway: visit www.NIRA.pt and click under ‘DOAR’

Inês Lopes

Newspaper editor at The Portugal Resident