Greece has an estimated 1 million stray cats and dogs, many of which suffer from injuries, diseases, and malnutrition (source: Hellenic Animal Welfare Federation). These animals are not only in distress but also pose a public health risk. The Greek government must implement effective spay/neuter programs, establish more shelters, and enforce stricter animal welfare laws.

I recently visited Crete and was shocked by the number of injured, starving or dead stray animals. The government and many local people don’t understand how much it affects and upsets tourists to see this and prevents them from returning to their country. JUST THIS WEEK I have seen video or photographic evidence of puppies dumped (alive) in bins. Dogs having their ears cut off. Dogs having acid thrown in their eyes and cats and dogs being poisoned to death, some with puppies still feeding from their dead mother. It’s beyond inhumane and needs to stop!!! The ‘luckier’ ones are just abandoned. I will not return to Greece and urge others not to visit, unless they address the issue and start helping the cats, dogs, and other animals abused and left on the dangerous streets. 

Sign this petition to urge the Greek government to take immediate action for these vulnerable animals!