Authorities in several Colombian cities have launched ambitious free sterilization programs for dogs and cats to curb animal overpopulation and reduce abandonment. Bogotá, Medellín, and Manizales are leading these initiatives with thousands of slots available during August 2026, combining fixed locations with mobile units that travel through neighborhoods and rural areas.
These campaigns, driven by local governments and supported by animal welfare organizations, aim not only to control uncontrolled breeding but also to prevent disease and improve community relations . Surgical procedures are performed ethically and safely, with clear requirements to ensure the animals arrive in good health.
Bogotá: 12.000 free places with the 'Cut It On Time' program
The District Institute for Animal Protection and Welfare (IDPYBA) has announced the opening of 12.000 new sterilization slots for August 2026 , as part of the "Cut It Out in Time" strategy. The services will be provided by mobile units visiting neighborhoods such as Fontibón, Suba, Bosa, Usaquén, Kennedy, San Cristóbal, Engativá, Usme, Puente Aranda, Ciudad Bolívar, Tunjuelito, Antonio Nariño, Rafael Uribe Uribe, Chapinero, Sumapaz, and Barrios Unidos. The fixed location of the Animal Care Unit (UCA), at Carrera 106A No. 67-02, El Muelle neighborhood, Engativá, will maintain its regular services.
Some sessions require prior scheduling through the platform turnos.animalesbog.gov.co , while others are conducted through local or mixed outreach. Each mobile unit and fixed location will have up to 200 slots available. Those interested must present their identification document, a utility bill proving residency in socioeconomic strata 1, 2, or 3, and bring their animals over four months old in good health. Dogs must be on a collar and leash, and cats must be in a carrier or secure container.
In addition, IDPYBA has launched the 'Good Neighbor' strategy to protect stray dogs and cats. 121 neighbors have already signed care agreements that include feeding, protection, and risk reporting. Each animal receives an identification collar, and the organization provides follow-up and veterinary support.
Medellín: six days and a special celebration for International Cat Day
The Medellín Mayor's Office and the Aburrá Valley Metropolitan Area have scheduled six sterilization campaigns between August 3 and 8. Locations include the UVA Nuevo Occidente, Quintas de San Javier, CAI Bello Oriente, Unidad Residencial Vento 1, the Potrerito rural area, and the UVA La Armonía. Additionally, on Saturday the 8th, International Cat Day will be commemorated with a special event at Bicentennial Park, organized in partnership with CES University.
The Undersecretary of Animal Protection and Welfare, Elizabeth Coral, highlighted that 6.300 animals have already been sterilized so far in 2026 , out of an annual goal of 21.000. Since the beginning of Mayor Federico Gutiérrez's administration, the number has reached 55.000. "Sterilization prevents overpopulation, unwanted litters, abandonment, and mistreatment, and reduces the number of animals admitted to the La Perla Animal Welfare Center," Coral explained.
Manizales: more than 5.500 accumulated sterilizations and coverage in rural areas
The Manizales Environmental Secretariat has reported that its free sterilization program has performed over 5.500 surgeries during the current administration. The programs primarily target families in socioeconomic levels 1 and 2, as well as animals cared for by people experiencing homelessness. Secretary Jessica Silvana Quiroz Hernández stated that the goal is to bring the service to communities with limited access to private veterinarians.
The procedures are being carried out in different neighborhoods and rural communities, and are accompanied by educational campaigns on responsible pet ownership . Animal health experts emphasize that sterilization reduces the risk of cancer and reproductive diseases, as well as preventing escapes and fights. Sister Ángel Pérez, a resident of one of the rural communities, appreciated the opportunity for low-income families.
These three Colombian cities demonstrate that investment in mass sterilization is an effective tool for controlling the dog and cat population, improving their welfare, and relieving pressure on shelters. Coordination between local governments, organizations, and the community is enabling thousands of animals to access a procedure that would otherwise be inaccessible to many families. With more than 23.000 slots available in August alone (12.000 in Bogotá, plus the campaigns in Medellín and the ongoing ones in Manizales), the trend points to a sustained reduction in animal abandonment and abuse in the country.
