In an effort to regulate Turkey’s large stray dog population, a bill was approved by a Turkish parliamentary commission, sparking fears among animal rights advocates of potential mass killings or neglect in shelters. The bill, passed late Tuesday, requires the collection and housing of stray dogs in shelters for neutering or spaying, with provisions for euthanization in specific cases.
Under the legislation, municipalities failing to control stray dogs could face imprisonment, while fines for pet abandonment would increase significantly. Despite amendments to limit euthanization conditions, concerns remain regarding potential misuse by local authorities.
Opposition parties criticize the bill for lacking funding provisions and targeting their mayors, while activists push for protection against potential harm posed by stray dogs. The debate highlights the challenges of balancing street safety with animal welfare in a complex urban environment.
Overall, the issue reflects the broader societal struggle in Turkey to address the growing conflicts between human and animal populations in urban settings.