Fireland Dogs (Perros del Fin del Mundo) addresses
Argentina's feral dog population and raises important questions about the human
role in domestication and neglect of animals. For decades, dog owners have been
abandoning their pets throughout the rural countryside of Tierra del Fuego,
where sheep farming sustains much of the local economy. Without proper care and
control, the dogs run rampant throughout the island's towns and farms, killing
livestock, causing public health concern, and threatening its ecosystem and
wildlife.
The film includes interviews with farmers, veterinarians,
and activists who are working to combat the dog's increasingly problematic
presence. Their efforts to curb the situation include public education schemes,
responsible adoption and neutering initiatives, and in the most extreme cases,
legislating to categorize the dogs as an invasive species which allows them to
be hunted and killed. While some invoke animal ethics and advocate for a
non-violent approach, others insist that sheep deserve as much protection and
care as the dogs.
Fireland Dogs expertly broaches attitudes about pets, the
human footprint, and our inclination to place more value on certain animals
over others. Addressing economic, health, and environmental concerns, the film
ultimately concludes that the future of Tierra del Fuego will be at risk until
a sustainable, community-led solution is determined.
"Fireland Dogs is a heartbreaking film detailing the economic, ecological and public health devastation caused by these growing dog packs. This film is highly recommended for academic libraries, as well as public library collections for adults."
-Kimberly A. Plassche, Map Librarian, Liaison to Geography, University at Buffalo
SELECTED SCREENINGS AND AWARDS
Earthvision Feature Award, Santa Cruz Film Festival, 2018
Cine Ambiental de la Patagonia, 2018
Puerto Madryn International Film Festival, 2018
National Broadcast, Argentina, 2018