In accordance with President Erdogan's request, the ruling justice and Development Party, AKP, has begun drafting a law that will oblige stray dogs to be euthanized on the grounds that they pose a "danger to life." The AKP has prepared a bill, referring to the demands of citizens who have been victims of stray dog attacks, the proposal is scheduled to be submitted to parliament in the coming days.
According to the new bill, stray dogs will first try to find owners. Municipalities will photograph dogs and post ads on their websites. Within 30 days, dogs that have not been adopted will be euthanized with injections of drugs.
The animals that will be taken by the new owners will be chipped, and they will be monitored by the Ministry of Agriculture. If the owner leaves the animal on the street or does not fulfill his duties, the sanctions provided for by the Law on Animal Protection will be applied to him.
The bill provoked a strong reaction from animal rights advocates. Animal lovers claim that this law will lead to the extermination of stray animals and is not a solution to the problem.