Animal rights activists protest the closure of the Franciscan Shelter.


A protester in support of the Franciscan Shelter carries his dog, which was rescued by the shelter and which he had the opportunity to adopt on January 11, 2026, in Mexico City. Workers from the Franciscan Shelter for companion animals, along with activists and animal rights advocates, took to the streets of Mexico City to protest the closure of the shelter, which housed 936 dogs and cats. Located in the Cuajimalpa borough, the shelter was shut down for alleged animal abuse with the support of the city police and is currently under investigation by the Attorney General's Office (FGJ) and the Environmental and Territorial Planning Attorney's Office (PAOT). The march was peaceful, with attendees and shelter staff carrying posters and demonstrating outside the National Palace. They maintain that the accusations are false and demand the prompt reopening of the shelter and the return of all the animals that were removed and placed in other facilities for their care. (Photo by Josue Pérez/Nexpher Images)