During the summer season, Saturdays in Saranda are especially lively. Tourists pack restaurants and bars, stroll The Promenade, and take boat tours to some of the area’s more distant and stunning beaches.

But for one local dog, a recent Saturday ended in misery and death. 

• He was dumped outside the office of a town veterinarian — barely alive, his back sprayed with bullets. 
• The veterinarian did what she could immediately. She next asked Saranda Dog Services — a local animal advocacy group —  to administer IV fluids and monitor his vital signs until Monday morning. Then, he would be transferred to Fier, two hours away, for x-rays and surgery. 
• Monday never came for him. He never even got a name. But he did die in a warm bed, and, we hope, with little or no pain.

Albania has laws on the books to fine and punish animal abusers. We urge Mayor Oltion Caci to step up and lead the way in enforcing these laws. 

Your signature on this petition helps bring this urgent matter to the mayor’s attention.