So many kind visitors come to Sal and take pity on the cats and dogs they see on the street and in their hotels. Unfortunately this is not always the best policy since large congregations of animals inside hotels causes problems with hygiene and complaints from other guests. Not all people love animals and it can be intimidating to see large groups of dogs wandering around, especially if you are not familiar with the country. When this happens, as for instance, on the beach at the RIU, some people feel that there needs to be an 'instant' solution, such as with the mysterious disappearance of the seven puppies that were born under a boat there about three months ago. Since no one wants this kind of inhumane treatment, new association SOS Cats & Dogs recommends that tourists do not feed the animals in or around hotels or allow dogs to follow them back to their hotel. Instead guests can help by making a donation of money or much needed treatments for parasites such as fleas, ticks & mange.
The hotels also need to take some responsibility in this matter, such as limiting the access for dogs (such as erecting a fence as the Belorizonte recently did), placing information for guests & training staff. In addition the association can supply ultra-sonic animal deterrents which discourage animals from entering the area. Incidentally these hand-held units work really well for joggers or bike riders who don't welcome the local dogs running alongside them!For more information email SOS Cats & Dogs
