Interview with Alejandra González, Head of Digital Marketing and Communication Elanco Iberia

How long have you been working in the pet sector?

For 41 years.

How many editions of Iberzoo Propet have you attended?

All of them, I am pleased to say!

What is your objective as co-sponsor of the VetMadrid Congress?

At Elanco, our goal as a co-sponsor of the VetMadrid Congress is to strengthen our bonds with the community, support the training and professional development of the sector, and showcase our innovative solutions that contribute to animal welfare and public health. We want to be a strategic ally for professionals, offering value by exchanging knowledge, the visibility of our proposals and encouraging solid, long-lasting relationships.

How would you describe the image of the Spain brand in the pet care sector in one word?

Committed.

What would you ask of the dog guardians who walk their pets in the streets?

I would ask them to be responsible and committed: to ensure that their pets are healthy and well, and that they are correctly vaccinated and cared for. That they encourage their socialisation safely, in a way that respects other animals and people, that they have respect for public spaces and always clear up their excrement. I would also ask them to prevent irresponsible breeding, encouraging respectful and responsible coexistence. However, above all, I would ask them never to abandon them, because a dog is part of the family and deserves lifelong love, care, and respect.

And how about administrations?

I would ask administrations to strengthen the laws against animal mistreatment and abandonment, establishing stricter sanctions upon those who breach these regulations. It is crucial to ensure compliance with vaccination, registration, and adequate care for dogs. I would also urge them to create more dog-friendly public spaces, such as local parks, and to launch campaigns to encourage the creation of dog-friendly businesses, incentivising stores, restaurants and other venues to allow pets. It would also be important to promote awareness-raising campaigns on picking up dog messes, controlling irresponsible breeding and the importance of responsible adoption. At the same time, they should devote more resources to animal protection, controlling overpopulation and education on respectful coexistence between animals and people. All of this will contribute to a better quality of life for animals and a more normalised coexistence.

Do you think people should have to do a course to be able to get a pet?

I think it would be beneficial but it shouldn't be mandatory because it might become an obstacle. The course should focus on promoting responsible coexistence and not become an obligatory requirement.

Do you share your life with a pet or have you ever had one?

I have always lived with pets and farm animals. At the moment, I live with two cats in our house. In addition, I am in charge of Elanco's Leave a Mark Programme, so I am in close contact with dogs.

Should medications be sold in veterinary centres or only in pharmacies as it has been until now?

They should be sold in both veterinary centres and pharmacies, always under the appropriate regulations and supervision to ensure animal welfare.

Should pet shops be allowed to sell all types of pets, including dogs and cats?

In my view, they should not. Whilst Spain continues to see a pitiful number of abandoned animals, pet shops should collaborate with verified, validated animal shelters to encourage responsible adoption by contributing with good advice.

Do you think there are enough dog parks and are they in a suitable condition?

Dog parks have been improving over time, but they don’t yet comply fully with optimal sanitary conditions. If those responsible for dogs abide by the rules of hygiene and look after public spaces, including children’s playgrounds, dogs can enjoy these spaces safely in an atmosphere of respectful coexistence. It is essential that we all do our part to guarantee that these places are suitable both for animals and for the people who use them.

Do you consider your pet is a part of the family?

Of course.

Does it appear in photos of family celebrations?

Always!

Would you like to have more than one pet at home?

I have two cats, and I would probably like to get another one.

Buy or adopt?

I prefer to adopt or pick up abandoned animals. I've always done it, but of course, I understand that some people prefer to buy them. In both cases, the only thing I ask is that they take good care of them and their health and commit not to abandoning them.