Over a Hundred Activists Stop Authorities from Removing Cows from Sanctuary in Spain 

Over a hundred activists gathered at the animal sanctuary La Manada Cántabra in Spain to prevent authorities from removing five cows and their calves, seized in 2022 due to alleged poor living conditions, and returning them to the farmer as ordered by a court ruling. The sanctuary had sheltered and rehabilitated the cows after their seizure. Activists, including members of other animal shelters from different parts of Spain, protested by chaining themselves and blocking the entrance, forcing SEPRONA agents to abandon their attempt to remove the animals that day.

The sanctuary founders have cared for the cows for three years and are claiming maintenance costs from the owner. The court that issued the ruling to return the animals to the farmer must now decide the next steps. Activists successfully halted the removal of the cows for the time being, but the situation remains uncertain as authorities may attempt to enforce the court decision in the future.