Animal shelter in Şehzadeler to be closed

A decision has been made to close the municipal animal shelter located in the Sarıalan neighborhood of Manisa's Şehzadeler district, which has been a long-standing point of contention among local residents and animal welfare advocates.

The instructions of Republican People's Party (CHP) leader Özgür Özel were instrumental in accelerating the process. Municipal officials and party administrators met and decided to relocate all animals from the current shelter to the recently opened Yunusemre Animal Life Center.

In a meeting attended by the mayors of Şehzadeler Municipality, Manisa Metropolitan Municipality, and the districts of Şehzadeler and Yunusemre, as well as the CHP Manisa Provincial Chair, a unanimous decision was reached to cease the use of the current site in order to ensure the animals live in much better conditions and to raise shelter standards.

During the relocation process, expert veterinarians will accompany the animals to monitor their health and well-being. Vehicles suitable for animal welfare will be used for the transfer, and all animals will undergo comprehensive health checks at the new center. At the Yunusemre Animal Life Center, rehabilitation programs will be implemented for the animals, providing them with a safer and more permanent living environment. Additionally, interested citizens will be able to visit this center and spend time with the animals housed there.

Manisa Metropolitan Municipality officials stated that they hope this joint effort, aimed at providing better conditions for stray animals, will serve as an example across the city. It was emphasized that, through the cooperation of the CHP and local governments, with the participation of non-governmental organizations, animal rights and welfare will continue to be prioritized. This process, initiated across the city, is intended to serve as a pioneer for developing similar standards in other districts.

News Source: 12punto