Protect Stray Dogs in Turkey Through Humane Reform
Protect Stray Dogs in Turkey Through Humane Reform
The Issue
What’s Happening
Turkey’s recently enacted Law No. 7527 requires municipalities to capture stray dogs, house them in shelters, and authorises euthanasia for animals deemed dangerous, terminally ill, or unfit for adoption.
While the law’s stated aim is population control, its implementation under current conditions risks widespread deaths in shelters. Turkey’s municipal shelters are already overcrowded and under-resourced, and local authorities are ill-equipped to manage the sudden influx of dogs.
Without major investment in welfare infrastructure and sterilisation programs, this law is leading to unnecessary suffering and the loss of countless healthy, adoptable animals.
Why This Matters
Overcrowding and neglect: Existing shelters cannot safely absorb the numbers that mandatory capture will create.
High risk of mass euthanasia: Inadequate resources make large-scale killing an inevitable solution.
Proven humane methods: Countries that invest in sterilisation, vaccination, and education achieve sustainable results.
Public health and ethics: Humane control protects people and animals, reducing disease and building compassion.
Turkey’s global reputation: Humane reform would show leadership and align with international animal welfare standards.
What We’re Asking For
We respectfully urge the Government of the Republic of Turkey to:
Repeal Law No. 7527 and halt mass capture programs that risk systemic euthanasia.
Adopt humane, science-based alternatives such as nationwide spay/neuter, vaccination, and community adoption schemes.
Upgrade and regulate municipal shelters to ensure food, water, veterinary care, and adequate space.
Collaborate with veterinarians, NGOs, and local communities for effective, transparent solutions.
Educate and support responsible ownership to prevent abandonment and future population growth.
Who Should Sign
This petition is for everyone who believes compassion defines progress:
Citizens of Turkey who want ethical, lasting solutions
Veterinarians, rescuers, and NGOs
International supporters of humane animal welfare reform
Disclaimer:
This campaign addresses animal welfare policy and shelter conditions. It is not directed at the Turkish people or any individual. Our aim is to advocate for humane, lawful, and evidence-based solutions that reduce suffering and protect both animals and communities.
8,954
The Issue
What’s Happening
Turkey’s recently enacted Law No. 7527 requires municipalities to capture stray dogs, house them in shelters, and authorises euthanasia for animals deemed dangerous, terminally ill, or unfit for adoption.
While the law’s stated aim is population control, its implementation under current conditions risks widespread deaths in shelters. Turkey’s municipal shelters are already overcrowded and under-resourced, and local authorities are ill-equipped to manage the sudden influx of dogs.
Without major investment in welfare infrastructure and sterilisation programs, this law is leading to unnecessary suffering and the loss of countless healthy, adoptable animals.
Why This Matters
Overcrowding and neglect: Existing shelters cannot safely absorb the numbers that mandatory capture will create.
High risk of mass euthanasia: Inadequate resources make large-scale killing an inevitable solution.
Proven humane methods: Countries that invest in sterilisation, vaccination, and education achieve sustainable results.
Public health and ethics: Humane control protects people and animals, reducing disease and building compassion.
Turkey’s global reputation: Humane reform would show leadership and align with international animal welfare standards.
What We’re Asking For
We respectfully urge the Government of the Republic of Turkey to:
Repeal Law No. 7527 and halt mass capture programs that risk systemic euthanasia.
Adopt humane, science-based alternatives such as nationwide spay/neuter, vaccination, and community adoption schemes.
Upgrade and regulate municipal shelters to ensure food, water, veterinary care, and adequate space.
Collaborate with veterinarians, NGOs, and local communities for effective, transparent solutions.
Educate and support responsible ownership to prevent abandonment and future population growth.
Who Should Sign
This petition is for everyone who believes compassion defines progress:
Citizens of Turkey who want ethical, lasting solutions
Veterinarians, rescuers, and NGOs
International supporters of humane animal welfare reform
Disclaimer:
This campaign addresses animal welfare policy and shelter conditions. It is not directed at the Turkish people or any individual. Our aim is to advocate for humane, lawful, and evidence-based solutions that reduce suffering and protect both animals and communities.
8,954
The Decision Makers
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Petition created on 16 October 2025