Special Report: Turkey Stray Dog Dilemma | Pt. 1

Special Report: Turkey Stray Dog Dilemma | Pt. 1

Author: As It Should Be Productions October 2, 2024 Duration: 23:15

The Turkish Parliament passed new legislation this summer that aims to remove all stray dogs from the streets by 2028, as these dogs are labeled by the government dangerous and causing harm to humans. This is a significant shift in policy in a country where street dogs have been embedded and accepted into its culture for centuries. Turkish animal welfare groups say in reality there are very few deadly dog attacks, but social media sensationalization and politicization of incidents have complicated debates. While everyone agrees there needs to be better plans to manage the country’s dog overpopulation, there is conflict on how to handle it. Animal advocates argue the 100,000 capacity in current shelters cannot humanely accommodate an estimated four million street dogs, calling the new stray dog legislation the “massacre law.” 


In the first episode of this two-part series, we explore the unique culture tradition of stray dogs living in Turkey, and discuss the problems and challenges around this new stray dog removal law.


We spoke to several guest experts about their perspective on Turkey’s stray dog dilemma with the new law. Guests include Elizabeth Lo (filmmaker), Nazlan Ertan (journalist), Lisanne Hillen (Melez Dog Rescue), and Ahmet Senpolat (HAYTAP, Animal Rights Federation).


For more information about the episode, guests, and featured links: www.dogsavethepeople.com/episodes/turkey-stray-dog-dilemma-2024-pt-1 


We often talk about saving dogs, but what happens when the roles are reversed? Dog Save The People explores that quiet, profound exchange. Hosted by Dr. Sharon Holland, an author and professor whose work examines the moral lines we draw between species, this podcast listens deeply to the stories that emerge from life with a dog. Each conversation reveals how the daily acts of feeding, walking, and caring for a canine companion can unexpectedly reshape our own routines, priorities, and emotional well-being. You’ll hear from a variety of people-families, kids, athletes, and those navigating mental health challenges-about the tangible ways a dog’s presence alters the rhythm of a home, encourages physical activity, and forges a unique kind of companionship. Produced by As It Should Be Productions, the series doesn’t offer training tips but instead considers the philosophical underpinnings of these relationships. It’s about the mutual rescue, the subtle fitness of heart and body that comes from having a responsibility to another creature. Tune in for a thoughtful, grounded discussion that goes beyond the simple joy of pet ownership to consider how these bonds fundamentally alter who we are, making the case that sometimes, the leash pulls both ways. This is a podcast for anyone who suspects their dog has done more for them than they could ever repay.
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