Turkish Authorities Approve Euthanasia for Sick and Aggressive Stray Dogs

The General Assembly of the Turkish Grand National Assembly has recently approved amendments to the Animal Protection Law, allowing for the euthanasia of sick and aggressive stray dogs. Animal rights advocates have strongly opposed the new law.

The contentious bill, which governs the management of stray animals in Turkey, was debated by parliamentarians for two days and 28 hours.

Following the review of all 17 articles, the final vote saw 500 out of 594 deputies participate. Of these, 275 voted in favor, 224 against, and one abstained. After passing the law, the Turkish parliament went on recess until October 1.

Article 5 of the newly approved law permits the euthanasia of stray dogs in line with the Veterinary Services Law.

Under the new regulations, euthanasia can be performed on dogs in shelters if they pose a risk to the health and safety of people and other animals and if their aggressive behavior cannot be managed. Additionally, animals suffering from contagious or incurable diseases that cause significant pain and suffering are also eligible for euthanasia. Decisions regarding euthanasia are to be made by veterinarians.

The law also mandates that cat and dog owners must register their pets using digital identification methods by December 31, 2025. The legislation clearly defines “owned animals” and “stray animals.”

Moreover, local authorities are required to capture stray dogs, place them in shelters, and find them new homes. Municipalities must establish shelters and implement "rehabilitation" procedures by December 31, 2028.

The bill has faced intense criticism from animal rights activists. Prior to its passage, thousands of people protested across the country. Opponents have branded it the "mass killing law."

Activists argue that Turkey’s limited number of shelters cannot accommodate the millions of abandoned pets.

Government estimates suggest that approximately 4 million stray dogs are on the streets of Turkey.

According to the Chairman of the Agricultural and Forestry Commission, between 2004 and 2023, 2,504,595 animals were sterilized, 2,846,387 were vaccinated, and over 533,000 found new homes. However, the country has only 322 shelters with a combined capacity of 105,000 animals.

In response to concerns about accommodating 4 million animals in shelters with a capacity of 105,000, the expert stated that municipalities have until December 31, 2028, to construct additional shelters.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who is expected to sign the bill into law, has supported the legislation and thanked the lawmakers who voted for it.

• Despite opposition provocations and campaigns based on misinformation, the National Assembly has once again heeded the voice of the people and refused to ignore the concerns of the silent majority, - said the Turkish leader.

The main opposition party in Turkey has announced plans to challenge the law in the Supreme Court.