New circular from the Istanbul Governor's Office for stray animals: March 17 is the deadline!

The Istanbul Governor's Office has issued a circular containing new regulations regarding stray animals, imposing significant responsibilities on municipalities. Prepared in line with the amendments made to the Animal Protection Law No. 5199, the circular outlines new steps regarding the control of stray animals, ensuring their care, and the operating procedures for shelters.

ALLOCATION OF SHELTER AREAS MANDATORY BY MARCH 17  

In the circular sent by the Governor's Office, it was emphasized that municipalities must determine care areas for stray animals and complete the allocation process no later than March 17. In cases where shelters are insufficient, it was suggested that universities and private veterinary clinics be included in the process through service procurement to accelerate the procedure.

CALL FOR URGENT MEASURES FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENTS 

The circular drew attention to the need for local governments to take urgent measures to eliminate "negative effects in terms of human, animal, and environmental health" that may arise regarding stray animals. While determining the operating procedures for shelters, details regarding the process of "Collection and Care of Stray or Debilitated Animals" were also explained.

Law No. 7527, which includes regulations regarding stray animals, was published in the Official Gazette dated August 2, 2024, and numbered 32620, and entered into force. In this context, it was stated that municipalities must act quickly in accordance with the new legislation.

THE PROCESS WILL BE MONITORED 

The Istanbul Governor's Office stated that it will closely monitor the work of municipalities in line with the circular. It was noted that if shelter areas are not allocated by March 17, necessary sanctions will be applied within the legal framework.