Turkey's highest court upholds law on control of stray dogs
The Supreme Court in Turkey has rejected a motion to annul a contentious law that allows 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" stated that The Supreme Court "rejected the motion to annul the contentious law on controlling the stray dog population." Animal rights advocates fear 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 enforcing regulations that were enacted last year. According to these regulations, local governments are required to capture stray dogs off the streets. Those in good health are to be castrated, sterilised, vaccinated, and put up for adoption. Suffering, sick, and dangerous animals to humans are to be euthanised.
Initially, the project also included cats. However, this provision was ultimately removed after a public outcry that this point caused.
Animal lovers alarmed
Animal rights advocates have no doubt that the contentious regulations will lead to the mass killing of dogs or placing them in already overcrowded shelters. Government estimates indicate that over four million stray dogs live on the streets. An even higher number is reported by the Bianet service, which suggests this population may reach up to ten million.
The contentious law also has its supporters. One of the organisations working to eliminate the problem of stray dogs is the Safe Streets and Defence of the Right to Life Association. In a report prepared by the organisation, it was noted that since 2022, 65 people have died in attacks by stray dogs.
