A new bill in Turkey is causing concern among animal rights advocates as it aims to regulate the country’s large population of stray dogs. With an estimated 4 million strays roaming the streets, the bill proposes housing them in shelters, neutering, and spaying them. However, fears arise that many dogs may end up being euthanized due to overcrowding and neglect in shelters.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan emphasized the need for this legislation, citing instances of stray dogs attacking humans, livestock, and causing traffic accidents. Municipalities failing to comply with the new regulations could face imprisonment or fines. Despite assurances from the government that the bill is not intended for mass culling, animal rights activists remain skeptical.
Veterinarian Turkan Ceylan expressed concerns about the conditions of shelters and the potential for diseases to spread among the dogs. Activists argue that stricter enforcement of existing regulations, such as catch-neuter-return programs, would be a more humane solution to the stray dog issue.
Opposition parties and activists have questioned the government’s motives behind the bill, with some fearing it may be used for political targeting. Public outrage has led to protests and calls for the withdrawal of the controversial legislation.