Source photo: Asociația SacheVet
Animal Welfare Under Scrutiny: Protests Erupt Over Shelter Conditions
Over a thousand people took to the streets Sunday, protesting in front of Parliament following revelations of animal mistreatment and killings at a private shelter in Suraia, Vrancea county. Demonstrators are calling for legislative changes to prevent the euthanasia of dogs funded by public money.
The protest, which began at 4:00 PM, was organized by Dreptate pentru Animale, Asociația Ramses, Kola Kariola, and Asociația Sache Vet. Over a thousand people participated, according to Agerpres.
“We protest against dog catchers and authorities! Dogs are not merchandise. Vetmedan is not an isolated case,” organizers stated in a public message.
They argue this isn’t an isolated incident, but rather “systemic cruelty” and “death paid for with public funds.”
Actress Carmen Tănase and stand-up comedian Drăcea, who leads Asociația Ramses, were present at the demonstration.
Organizers referenced footage from a shelter managed by Asociația “Sprijină Câinii – Păun” and announced further revelations are forthcoming. “Private shelters funded by public money can no longer be called shelters. When profit becomes the goal, and the result is death, the real name is something else,” they stated.
The Suraia Case: A Catalyst for Change
The situation at the dog shelter in Suraia, Vrancea county, gained public attention after an animal protection NGO published images on social media showing tortured and killed dogs. The shelter’s operations have been suspended.
NGOs mobilized to the location to rescue surviving animals. Marius Chircă, founder of Kola Kariola, reported that over 200 surviving dogs were removed from the Suraia shelter.
Chircă criticized the authorities’ response and the measures taken thus far. He noted that corpses of dogs and containers with a restricted euthanasia substance were found around the shelter, raising concerns about improper disposal and potential illegal activity.
Euthanasia as Business: Millions Spent on Dog Culling
The Suraia case is not unique. Investigative website Snoop discovered another shelter, Asociația Aspa Ivets in Uzunu, Giurgiu county, facing accusations of intentional killing of animals without justification. This shelter has ten criminal cases open against it in the last five years and remains operational.
Snoop revealed that over 64,000 dogs have been euthanized in Romania in the last three years, with half of these procedures occurring at four shelters managed by veterinarians who appear to have turned euthanasia into a business. This is due to public policy that incentivizes killing dogs, at a cost exceeding 9 million euros.
Asociația Sache: A Beacon of Hope
Asociația Sache, actively involved in animal rescue and veterinary care, is building Romania’s first Social Veterinary Hospital. The organization provides affordable veterinary services and free care to vulnerable animals. Founded in 2016, Sache utilizes a social enterprise model, reinvesting 90% of its cabinet profits into its social mission.
Sache relies on donations, including SMS donations, which have grown to support 6,000 monthly donors contributing 2 euros each. The organization also operates mobile clinics to reach underserved rural areas.
The Fight for Transparency and Accountability
The protests and investigations highlight a growing demand for transparency and accountability in animal welfare. The focus is shifting towards preventing animal suffering and promoting responsible pet ownership, rather than relying on euthanasia as a primary solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the main issue with the Suraia shelter? The shelter is accused of mistreating and killing dogs, with evidence of improper euthanasia practices and potential illegal activity.
- How much public money has been spent on dog euthanasia in Romania? Over 9 million euros have been spent on euthanizing over 64,000 dogs in the last three years.
- What is Asociația Sache doing to assist? Asociația Sache provides veterinary care, runs mobile clinics, and is building a Social Veterinary Hospital to offer affordable services.
Pro Tip: Support local animal shelters and NGOs through donations, volunteering, or fostering to make a direct impact on animal welfare in your community.
Did you know? Asociația Sache began with the rescue of a single dog, Sache, who was severely injured by students. This single act of compassion grew into a full-fledged organization dedicated to animal welfare.
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