Six mestizos were abandoned in a cardboard box near the popular homes of Sarule. The mayor has adopted one and temporarily takes care of three others while the last two are guests of as many families in the town. In 2023, the theme of animal abandonment sadly continues to hold sway even on the island, where there is no shortage of examples of those who show no respect for their four-legged friends. The incivility of those who make themselves protagonists of certain gestures is fortunately contrasted by the example of the many who, moved by a strong sense of love, adopt the puppies, giving them a new life.
The example
The beautiful response from Barbagia bears witness to this. The dogs, apparently in good health, but still scared of being stolen from their mother, were spotted by some residents who did not hesitate to contact the Municipality, who promptly took care of the foundlings. Mayor Paolo Ledda, who is strongly displeased with what happened, recounted it also on his Facebook page: «This morning – reads the note – we received a showy and unwanted gift package. I have nothing against animals much less against dogs, but it must be said that it is not correct to pass on the costs and effects of what is certainly a legitimate desire to the community». Anger, that of the mayor, dictated by the expense that the institution he leads annually supports to stem stray dogs: Sarule, which has an agreement with the nearby Fonni kennel, disburses every twelve months from 7,000 to 20,000 euros for the service. Funds, as Ledda explains, subtracted from taxpayers, and taken away from other services that would be useful to the community, at a time when budgets are increasingly lean.
The appeal
«It's so easy to abandon, then "mamma Comune" takes care of taking on the burdens of the case. The daily costs for a puppy in a kennel are the same as for a place in the school canteen. Having a dog in the house or any animal involves responsibility. It is useless to deny that this basic principle has been disregarded this time».
There was strong outrage from the population who, through social media and publicly, did not fail to isolate the few who lurk in the shadows, passing from words to deeds: in fact, three families have already adopted the first puppies, including that of the mayor, who has always dog lover also as a hunter. Currently there are three puppies left, temporarily cared for in my house - says Ledda - I would like to thank the fellow citizens who have already done their part. I launch a new appeal for the three little ones who deserve affection and attention. It would be a great regret to have no other route than delivery to the shelter. The doors are open to anyone who wants to give them love."
In the meantime, at the foot of Monte Gonare, the tam tam for adoptions is large, extending to neighboring countries as well. In the comments on Ledda's post, there is no shortage of those who are stepping forward in these hours to embrace the noble cause. The life lesson of emigrants such as Angelo Mele, who from Emilia makes himself available to welcome one, or Gabriele Mele, resident in the country, ready to do the same is extraordinary.
The great heart of Barbagia prevailed this time too, demonstrating how great the sensitivity towards animals is.
Giorgio Ignazio Onano
