Animal rights advocates made a resounding statement with a press release, once again taking action for the future of cats and dogs living in the streets and villages. The event, which brought together approximately 60 civil society organizations, was led by Yasemin Yılmaz, a member of the board of directors of the Haydiko Association.

Call for the Protection of Endangered Animals

In the press release, animal rights advocates expressed their concerns about the collection and sheltering of cats and dogs, especially those living in villages and cities, with some of them being euthanized. Advocates reiterated the message that “killing is not the solution” and emphasized that past attempts at different methods did not even conform to contemporary European standards.

Pointing to Municipal Responsibility

Speakers noted that municipalities that have not fulfilled their responsibilities for 19 years should take action to control the animal population. Animal rights advocates pointed out that only 189 municipalities in Turkey have carried out sterilization procedures, which they deemed insufficient for over 1,200 municipalities. Therefore, it was emphasized that sterilization should be expanded and sterilized animals should be released.

The Importance of Small Sterilization Centers

Speakers stated that massive shelters do not solve the problem, and instead, small and effective sterilization centers are more successful. They expressed the view that “sterilization is needed instead of killing cats and dogs living in cities and villages.”

Attention to the Animals of Those Who Rely on Agriculture and Livestock

In addition, attention was drawn to the hundreds of thousands of animals cared for by thousands of people who make a living from agriculture and livestock in Thrace and Anatolia. It was emphasized that collecting animals that do not comply with legal procedures could lead to significant backlash and that more humane solutions should be sought.

Animal rights advocates stated that they will continue their fight for the respect and preservation of animal rights with more awareness and action in the future.