Turkiye recently passed a law aimed at addressing its large population of stray dogs. The legislation mandates that local governments capture, neuter, vaccinate, and shelter these animals. While the law has been presented as a solution to safety and public health concerns, it has sparked significant controversy and protests.
Turkiye’s parliament has passed a new law to round up about four million stray dogs in the country. This decision has faced strong opposition from animal rights activists both within Turkiye and internationally.
Supporters of the law argue it’s necessary due to concerns about dog attacks, road accidents, and rabies. The ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) moved forward with the vote quickly, just before the summer break.
Many animal welfare groups are worried that this law will lead to the euthanasia of many stray dogs. Critics have called it the “massacre law” because it allows for the euthanasia of strays if they are deemed dangerous, sick, or uncontrollable.
The main opposition party, the Republican People’s Party (CHP), plans to challenge the law in the constitutional court. CHP leader Özgür Özel stated that the law violates animals’ right to life.
Animal rights activists suggest a different approach: a mass campaign to vaccinate and sterilize stray dogs. They believe this would be a more humane and long-term solution.
Turkey’s Love For Dogs
Turkey has 322 animal shelters, which can only house 105,000 dogs, far fewer than needed. Humane Society International has also expressed concern, saying the law could lead to unnecessary suffering and death for many dogs.
The law requires municipalities to spend 0.3% of their annual budgets on expanding shelters by 2028. However, this might strain limited resources, especially in the nine main cities won by the CHP in recent elections. CHP officials have declared they will not implement the law, despite potential jail time for non-compliance.
Many Turks care deeply for stray dogs, often providing them with food and shelter. Municipal efforts from 2004 to 2020 saw over a million strays neutered, vaccinated, and returned to the streets. Charities also fundraise to support these animals.
Two famous stray dogs highlight the issue. Boji, an Anatolian shepherd mix, became famous for riding public transportation in Istanbul. He was adopted in 2022. Another stray, Zeytin, a Labrador cross, was featured in the documentary “Stray,” showcasing Istanbul’s stray dog policy.
The passage of this law has ignited intense debate both within Turkey and internationally, with many expressing deep concern for the welfare of the affected animals.
