Transforming Lives: Support the Rescue of Stray Animals

Ruya Atila is organizing this fundraiser.

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The aim of this campaign is to help a particular rescue centre led by an eminent animal activist, Banu Aydin, who has devoted her life to rescue animals in need. Banu has volunteered in government shelters for 15 years and has an extensive experience in animal rescue operations all over Turkey. As she witnessed the government shelter conditions by first hand, she decided to create a loving space for animals, particularly stray dogs, in both Istanbul and Kirklareli. Currently, we accommodate 100 dogs in Istanbul and 40 disabled dogs in Kirklareli in our premises. Our aim is to rescue as much as dog possible from animal shelters and streets and find the right family for them.

TURKEY’S NEW LAW ABOUT STRAY ANIMALS

Recently in Turkey, a new animal rights law passed, paving the way for the killing of over 4 million stray dogs. The government failed to keep the animal population in the street under control, because they failed to spay stray dogs in accordance with the original animal rights legislation. As a result, ‘Proposal on Amendments to the Animal Protection Law’ which caused a public outcry, was enacted with 275 votes in favour and 224 against. The law requires all stray dogs to be put in animal shelters, and where it is not possible to home them within 30 days, euthanize all of them and repeat this cycle. Unfortunately, not only there is less than 200 animal shelters in Turkey, but the condition of government shelters is also horrible.

Since the law has passed, we are witnessing horrific animal massacres all over Turkey, from burying baby dogs alive, to cut animals in pieces and throw them in an empty territory.

Interpretation of the Law

The clause which specifies the animal type is vogue as the reference made as ‘ownerless animal’. Therefore, this definition extends to various animal types including stray cats. Furthermore, the law imposes an obligation to municipalities to captivate animals in so-called shelters, leading to life-long captivity and suffering for stray animals.

Instead of proper treatment, rehabilitation and adoption process, dogs with various illnesses and “negative” behaviours will be euthanized. And the scope of those illnesses and negative behaviours are very vague. Therefore, this clause is open for a manipulation.

Prison Sentence to local Municipalities

The law aims to sentence municipal officials from 6 months to 2 years to prison if they refuse to build “confinement” centres and collect or kill street animals. On the contrary, there has never been an adequate sanction for 20 years when mayors who have ordered unlawful mass killings or relocations and Ministry of Agriculture officials who have ignored unlawful actions. Unfortunately, cases were dropped or not pursued.

Volunteers not allowed to protect animals

As the law strictly prohibits any stray dog to remain on streets, volunteers are prohibited to participate any activity that protects stray animals. Also, it is prohibited to protest this law. Therefore, any animal that enters into government shelters, they do not come out.

While all these new regulations are in place, there is no provision that bans new law animal breeding and pet sales.

HOW WAS THE CULTURE OF "STRAY ANIMALS" IN THE DAILY LIFE OF TURKEY?

In Turkey, the term "stray animal" doesn’t quite capture how we feel about the unowned animals in our communities. We prefer to call them "street animals" because they are truly a part of our cities, our neighbourhoods, and our daily lives. These animals aren’t just passersby; they are beloved members of our streets, bringing joy, warmth, and a unique charm to our everyday experiences.

Across many neighbourhoods, residents and local shopkeepers take it upon themselves to care for these street animals. They provide food, shelter, and companionship, recognizing the animals as gentle souls who enrich our lives with their presence. These animals, in turn, offer us moments of happiness and connection, becoming small but significant sources of positivity in our communities.

Here are some pictures from the streets of all over Turkiye

THE REALITY OF SHELTERS IN TURKEY

Prior to the amended law, animal shelters in Turkey were far from being safe homes for animals. Most of these shelters are inadequate in many ways to accommodate animals. For instance, their spaces are not adjusted to weather conditions, not hygienic, and shelter staff does not provide enough food for animals. Even worse, responsible staff in these shelters does not really care about animals and unfortunately most of times they perform violence towards animals. In a nutshell, Turkey’s animal shelters have become death camps where animals suffer, and often starve to death.

REALITY?

In June 2024, the new amendment has been made to the animal rights protection law and since then, we are starting to see mass killings. Even though it is hard to see, the mass killings are being executed through tortures towards stray dogs, rather than euthanasia.

In a leaked CCTV footage, a shelter staff is strangling a street animal with his hands and people, including children, are watching this terrifying moment. Other videos are just as horrifying.

Municipalities that failed to control the population of street animals by applying proper spraying strategies now enabling this mass killing.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

You can contribute to this fundraising campaign to help to cover the expenses of our animal rescue centre. As mentioned above, our centres in both Istanbul and Kırklareli are home to over 140 animals and we are also caring for more than 150 dogs in pet hotels and vet clinics, inclusing those that are seriously wounded or very ill.

For over a decade, Banu, the dedicated founder of these rescue centres, has been tirelessly financing these operations and carrying out rescue missions across Turkiye. Her commitment has led to rescue care, and rehoming of over 2,000 street animals. Banu’s passion doesn’t stop there- she’s also an author, having written book about dogs and cats, with all proceeds lovingly donated to what she calls her ‘homeless children’.

By contributing to this campaign, you’re not just supporting an animal rescue centre; but becoming a part of a community that believes in compassion, care, and the right of every animal to a safe and loving environment.

You can see Banu Aydin's efforts on her Instagram account and YouTube account:

https://www.instagram.com/bnydn/

https://youtube.com/@banuaydn1794?si=LXRQA-qlHFnwLOdW

BEFORE AND AFTER RESCUE

Banu has countless ‘before and after’ stories that stands as powerful testaments to the incredible transformation she has made possible for these animals. With over 64,000 followers on social media, hundreds of articles in Turkish newspaper, and two published books about dogs and cats, Banu’s dedication and impacts are widely recognized.