Evaluation of municipal strategies for animal welfare in Montería (2020-2023)

Abstract

This study evaluates municipal animal welfare strategies implemented in Montería, Córdoba, between 2020 and 2023, within the framework of “One Health” and “One Welfare” principles. The research arises from the need to analyze the real impact of public policies aimed at protecting and caring for companion animals. A qualitative-descriptive approach was used, including a documentary review of regulations, action plans, and official reports, as well as semi-structured interviews with key actors from the public sector and civil organizations. The results show progress in regulatory structuring, awareness campaigns, and the creation of free veterinary care programs. However, weaknesses were identified in budget allocation, institutional coordination, and monitoring mechanisms. The discussion highlights the importance of consolidating sustainable, integrated, and contextualized policies aligned with the “One Health” approach, which promotes the connection between human, animal, and environmental well-being. It is concluded that although Montería has made progress in policy formulation, structural and operational challenges persist that limit their effectiveness. The study proposes an evidence-based roadmap to strengthen institutional management of animal welfare, with the potential to be replicated in other intermediate cities in Latin America.