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The announcement outraged animal rights advocates, who said it was unnecessarily tough.
“We are willing to enter into a plan that addresses their concerns but maintains the lives and welfare of the animals,” said Ana Maria Salicrup, a member of Save a Gato’s board.
Last March, an organization based in the northeastern US state of Maryland, Alley Cat Allies, filed a suit against the NPS to try and block it from taking action.
The park service halted its plan, which was set to go into effect on October 1, until the court issues a ruling.
“It’s illegal, inhumane and makes no sense,” Yonaton Aronoff, an attorney for Alley Cat Allies, said of the NPS plan to euthanize the cats.
The cats have been roaming around San Juan’s historic area since at least the mid-20th century.
Since the controversy arose, many local merchants and tourists have voiced opposition to their removal.
“They don’t bother me. On the contrary, they help my business,” said Lucas Osorio, owner of a store in Old San Juan. “Besides, there are no rats here, no pests.”
Mark McCullough, an architect originally from the southeastern US state of Louisiana, said he would be saddened to see the cats removed, calling them an essential part of San Juan’s identity.
Aronoff called for local residents to voice their opposition.
“We know that Puerto Ricans love cats and do not agree with the plan,” he said.
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Publish date : 2024-10-16 05:06:00
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