In Turkey, the penalty for discarded animals will increase 10 times

According to the decree amending certain articles of the current Law 5199 on the protection of animal rights, the fine for those who abandon their animals will be increased tenfold, from 5,000 to 50,000 Turkish lire.

The decree also specifies that shelters will not accommodate all homeless animals, but only those who pose a threat to the life and security of citizens. Harmless sterilized dogs, who are cared for and fed by residents of neighbourhoods, will not be touched or returned to the place of residence after sterilization.

The proposal is expected to be presented to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan after the Kurban Bayram, then discussed with the opposition and submitted to Parliament.