Turkey’s Parliament trying to find out how Europe has found solution to “stray animals” issue

Following President Erdogan’s statement regarding stray animals, the Turkish Grand National Assembly took action. The TBMM reviewed legislative arrangements related to stray animals in European countries.

Regulations concerning stray animals in Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Italy, Poland, Portugal, and Greece were examined by the TBMM Research Services Presidency.

UNITED KINGDOM: “COLLECTION OF STRAY DOGS“

In the United Kingdom, responsible local authorities appoint an official for their designated area to collect stray dogs. If the official encounters a stray dog in a public area, they seize the dog and take it into their custody. If the dog has a collar, the owner is notified in writing by the official. If the owner wishes to reclaim the dog held by the official, they must cover all expenses incurred due to the seizure. The seized dogs are either returned to their owners or put up for adoption. However, if a dog is not reclaimed or adopted within 7 days from the date of seizure and expenses aren’t covered, euthanasia is carried out in the least painful manner.

NETHERLANDS: NEUTERING

The Netherlands, known as the first country in Europe to have effectively resolved issues related to stray dogs, achieves this through intensive neutering programs rather than euthanasia or sheltering. Furthermore, taxes for store-bought dogs are increased to encourage adopting homeless dogs from shelters.

ITALY: PLACEMENT IN SHELTERS

Italy incorporates various regulations related to animal rights, including the constitution and criminal law. The relevant law stipulates that stray dogs found on the streets will be placed in animal shelters. If someone identifies themselves as the owner within 60 days of the dog’s capture, the dog is returned to them. Otherwise, stray dogs are handed over to private individuals or protective associations that guarantee proper treatment, provided they receive protective treatment against rabies and other contagious diseases. Stray dogs are subject to euthanasia only if they are seriously ill, untreatable, or proven to be dangerous. Some shelters in Italy are operated by protective organizations and associations, while others are run by municipalities. Both municipalities and organizations also implement neutering programs for stray animals.

Source: sozcu.com.tr/hayatim/yasam-haberleri/tbmm-inceledi-avrupa-sahipsiz-hayvanlara-nasil-cozum-buluyor/?