CHP's Sarıbal on 'stray animals': 'This problem is solved by keeping them alive, not by killing them'

Sarıbal, in a press conference he held at the Parliament, criticized the statement made by Minister of Agriculture and Forestry İbrahim Yumaklı regarding stray dogs.

Stating that Minister Yumaklı emphasized in his remarks that Turkey is in a high-risk category for rabies, Sarıbal argued that an atmosphere of fear and hatred against stray animals is being created with this rhetoric.

Claiming that stray animals have not been sufficiently neutered throughout the AK Party governments, Sarıbal noted that "the government's policies have deepened the stray animal problem."

Sarıbal said, "Urbanization and agricultural policies have destroyed small agricultural businesses and village life, exacerbating the problem of street animals."

Stating that pet ownership rates have also fallen due to economic reasons, Sarıbal said, "Due to the economic difficulties experienced after COVID-19, food costs have increased, and this situation has negatively affected adoption rates. Animal trade must be prevented and the adoption process must be encouraged."

Emphasizing that he is against the euthanasia of stray animals, Sarıbal used the expressions, "This problem is solved by keeping them alive, not by killing them. Public institutions, volunteers, and non-governmental organizations must cooperate and show respect for animal rights. We must exist to keep them alive, not to kill them."