The Constitutional Court Of Turkey Rejects Repeal Of The Massacre Law
Today, the Constitutional Court of Turkey made a significant decision by voting against the repeal of the amendments to Animal Welfare Law 5199.
These amendments have been a source of considerable anxiety, as they have inflicted substantial suffering and misery on both people and animals.
Sadly, the ongoing suffering seems destined to continue as long as the current form of animal welfare persists.
Relocating stray dogs will not solve the issue, as other dogs will simply fill the empty spaces left behind. The streets will remain populated with abandoned dogs. While the directive to microchip pets and impose fines for abandonment are commendable efforts, those who abandon their pets are unlikely to comply with microchipping, making it difficult to hold them accountable.
Furthermore, shepherds do not spay or neuter their dogs, allowing them to breed freely and abandoning those that are no longer needed.
The lack of a breeding moratorium only exacerbates the situation by ensuring a constant supply of dogs that may eventually be abandoned. Without significant changes in these areas, the problem will persist.
Restrictions and bans on adoption are prohibitive.
Charitable organizations play a crucial role in many European countries by rescuing dogs from death row in pounds, providing care, and finding them suitable homes. Their diligence ensures that these dogs are healthy and unable to breed, effectively contributing to population control.
It is truly perplexing that such organizations are not permitted to support government efforts in Turkey, as their involvement would significantly aid in managing and reducing the number of stray dogs.
The recent surge in violence, seemingly justified by a misinterpretation of laws that some believe grant them unrestricted freedom, is deeply concerning.
The senseless shooting of dogs in public spaces, with the perpetrators facing no repercussions, highlights a disturbing trend.
Social media has become a battleground, with inflammatory language and calls to arms further fuelling the divide.
Devoted animal advocates face derogatory labels, being called everything from 'rats' to 'plague,' or even 'gangs.'
Personally, I have experienced this hostility first hand, being labelled a 'wicked bastard' for my efforts to heal sick and dying dogs.
This atmosphere of aggression and misunderstanding not only threatens the safety of animals & people but also undermines the compassion and care that so many strive to provide.
The sheer pointlessness of the situation weighs heavily on my heart.
The financial burden of this initiative, which will not achieve its desired outcomes, must be substantial.
We've observed countless instances globally where attempts to resolve this issue through the same tactics have invariably ended in failure.
It's concerning how individuals who exhibit kindness and compassion towards both people and animals are being abused & threatened.
It's essential to recognize that caring for animals does not equate to neglecting human concerns; the two are not mutually exclusive.
Individuals should not have to fear judgment or persecution simply because they choose to show empathy towards all living beings, whether they have a pet or actively advocate for animal welfare.
The underlying issue seems to be a misunderstanding or perhaps a reluctance to accept that one can simultaneously hold compassion for both humans and animals.
Which is worrying.
I am particularly concerned by the escalation of hate.
The situation raises an alarming question: if dogs are being targeted today, who could be next?
The demands for violence against them, even as they transition away from the streets, reflect a chilling trend where initial demands for action are never enough.
This insatiable need for more drastic measures signals a dangerous shift in societal norms.
Such tendencies threaten the very fabric of civilized society, as they foster an environment where intolerance and aggression can flourish unchecked.
It is crucial to address these sentiments and work towards fostering understanding and compassion, not just for animals, but for all beings.