Turkish court upholds law sparking stray dog controversy
The Supreme Court in Turkey has rejected a motion to annul a controversial law allowing for the control of the stray dog population. Animal rights advocates warn that upholding the law will lead to mass killings of animals.
The Turkish daily "Hurriyet" reported that the Supreme Court rejected the motion to annul the controversial law on controlling the stray dog population. Animal rights advocates have no doubt that this will lead to the mass killing of dogs.
The motion to annul the law was submitted by the opposition Republican People's Party. The judges confirmed the necessity of implementing regulations enacted last year. According to these regulations, local governments are required to capture stray dogs off the streets. Those whose health condition allows it are to be castrated, sterilized, vaccinated, and put up for adoption. Suffering, sick, and dangerous animals to humans are to be euthanized.
Initially, the project also included cats. However, this provision was ultimately removed after a wave of public outrage it caused.
Animal lovers alarmed
Animal rights advocates have no doubt that the controversial regulations will lead to the mass killing of dogs or placing them in already overcrowded shelters. Government estimates indicate that over 4 million stray dogs live on the streets. An even higher number is provided by the Bianet service, indicating that this population may reach up to 10 million.
The controversial law also has its supporters. One of the organizations working to eliminate the problem of stray dogs is the Safe Streets and Defense of the Right to Life Association. In a report prepared by the organization, it was noted that since 2022, 65 people have died in attacks by stray dogs.
