The condition of dog keeping in Kosovo is subpar, resulting in distressing living conditions for many dogs. The inadequacy of care, improper living conditions, and abandonment have led to widespread suffering among these animals. Beyond animal welfare, this situation reflects the values of society as a whole.
In light of the distressing circumstances surrounding dog welfare in Kosovo, our organization as always has proactive stance, urging the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Rural Development to change this situation. This entails the drafting and approval of the “Administrative Instruction for Responsible Keeping of Companion Animals.”
It’s worth noting that this is not the first time that our organization makes such a request. In fact, during a stakeholder meeting focused on managing the stray dog issue, convened by the Prime Minister’s Office and attended by the Prime Minister himself on January 25th, 2022, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Rural Development (MAFRD), specifically the Minister, Mr. Faton Peci, and his advisor/spokesperson, Mrs. Flutura Mustafa, assured their commitment to addressing these concerns earnestly and promptly. This is very important given that these issues have been neglected since the ratification of the Animal Welfare Law of Kosovo in 2005.
Moreover, the responsible keeping of companion animals and the regulation of breeding and selling of dogs (and other companion animals) form integral components of the National Strategy for Dog Population Management and its accompanying Action Plan, both of which were approved by the Government on October 26th, 2022.
The proposed “Administrative Instruction for Responsible Keeping of Companion Animals” must address this pressing matter. By establishing a well-defined framework for responsible dog keeping, this AI must seek to ensure the fulfillment of physical, mental, and emotional needs of companion animals. The AI should provide guidelines for critical aspects, including appropriate shelter, proper nutrition, access to medical care, regular exercise, and essential social interaction.
Education and awareness play pivotal roles in driving change. By fostering public understanding about responsible companion animal care, including cats, we can cultivate a culture where animals are treated with the respect and compassion they deserve as sentient beings.
This action could enhance the lives of countless dogs, resulting in healthier, happier animals that contribute positively to their keepers’ (owners’) lives and the broader community, if well implemented.
Drafting and approving this AI requires proactive action. It calls for the backing of the government to ensure its consisted and effective enforcement. After 18 years of inaction from MAFRD and KFVA in addressing this issue, we now demand their accelerated involvement.
Our organization calls upon individuals, organizations, and authorities to lend their voices and support to this crucial initiative. By uniting our efforts, we can ensure that the “AI for Responsible Keeping of Companion Animals” materializes, leading to a transformation in the lives of hundreds and thousands of companion animals and thus preventing the abandonments of many dogs on the streets.
In conclusion, the state of dog keeping in Kosovo warrants immediate attention. The introduction of the “Administrative Instruction for Responsible Keeping of Companion Animals” transcends a mere legal step; it signifies our pledge to the well-being of all living beings that coexist in our country.
The case of the dog in the picture has been addressed to the KFVA for inspection and we thank everyone who writes to us to report animals in bad or abusive condition.
For cases of dog abuse and neglect, contact us at: info@animalrights-rks.org or act by following this link: https://www.animalrights-rks.org/report-animal-cruelty/
