Citizens gathered in Tbilisi and Batumi to defend the rights of stray animals. In Tbilisi, protesters rallied outside the government administration, with some bringing their dogs. The demonstrations were planned following reports about stray dogs that circulated over the past week.
Animal rights activists said the issue should be addressed through humane methods, including a comprehensive sterilization and castration program. They oppose abandoning animals in uninhabited areas, euthanasia, or alleged mistreatment.
The protests follow controversy over a state program to manage stray and community animals. Activists say some animals are not returned after being taken and that caretakers are not informed about their whereabouts.
Authorities deny any wrongdoing. The Environmental Supervision Department says no violations were found at the Gori shelter after an inspection, while the National Food Agency says animals are taken only for veterinary procedures, including vaccination, identification, and sterilization.
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