Dog Attacks on the Rise in Quintana Roo, Over 500 Injured This Year

A stray dog walking on a street in Quintana Roo, Mexico

Chetumal, Quintana Roo — Dog attacks on public streets are surging across Quintana Roo, with hospitals reporting 583 people treated for bite wounds so far this year, according to state health authorities.

Both stray and domestic dogs that escape or are allowed to roam freely have been responsible for the attacks, which often leave serious injuries. In some cases, the incidents have escalated into physical confrontations between pet owners and victims.

Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable, officials said. The injuries can be severe, requiring emergency care at public hospitals.

Neighborhood committees have repeatedly urged residents to keep their dogs under supervision and use leashes when taking them outside. However, many owners continue to ignore the recommendations, leading to preventable attacks.

Authorities are calling on pet owners to practice responsible ownership, including proper containment and leash use, to reduce risks to the public and avoid conflicts. The goal is to prevent further injuries and ensure safer streets for everyone.

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By Staff Desk

The Riviera Maya News & Events Staff Desk covers local events, cultural celebrations, community stories, and general news from across the Riviera Maya and Yucatán Peninsula. The Staff Desk produces timely coverage of festivals, municipal announcements, community initiatives, and stories that don't fall under a single specialist beat, ensuring that every corner of the region receives balanced attention.The Staff Desk draws from municipal calendars, event organizers, community submissions, and official announcements to keep English-speaking readers informed about what's happening in their communities — from charity events and school programs to local government services and cultural exhibitions.When individual bylines are not used, the Staff Desk attribution reflects collaborative reporting by the editorial team, with the same editorial standards, fact-checking, and translation review applied to every story.