On the 4th of June 2025, the Mexico-based organisation Seres Libres A.C. rescued mares Aruma and Ixchel (mother and daughter), who were being exploited by being forced to pull a rubbish cart through the streets of San Buenaventura, Ixtapaluca. The case shocked many people after images were released showing little Ixchel, practically a newborn, with her mother being forced to perform traction work.
On social networks, members of Seres Libres denounced the lack of intervention by the animal welfare authorities in the area, noting: “Animal welfare has done nothing and [the mares] work DAILY in all the streets of San Buenaventura Inxtapaluca… The patrols did not want to help us, probably on orders from felipearvizu_ (they have us blocked and we cannot tag them). The support must be for all citizens… Help us label them as crazy because we don’t have support and we don’t want to leave them.”
The first observations about the filly’s health were worrying: “The baby looks bad,” they said from the shelter. However, the hard work of the team and collaboration with allies made the rescue possible. Later, they expressed their gratitude, highlighting the fundamental role of the rescuers and the police: “WE DID IT, FAMILY! R E S C A T A D A S… Mom and baby are now safe and we have their custody… the municipal police of Ixtapaluca raffled off and we are going to quote something they said when the cart drivers questioned them about why they did not help them and us, ‘We work for the animals and we defend them’.” Little Ixchel was immediately transferred to the shelter to receive veterinary attention, especially on her hind legs deteriorated by excessive effort at such a young age.
The result of this rescue was celebrated with hope: “You will finally be able to enjoy the beauty of life, be horses, be free and live full of love and care” Now, Aruma and Ixchel have found refuge, identity and finally, the opportunity to live free, away from exploitation and the streets.
