In the framework of Georgia’s Pilot Program for the Management of Stray Animal Populations, a total of 3,761 stray and sheltered animals were rescued and treated across Adjara, Imereti and Kakheti from July 29 to October 15. The efforts were coordinated by the National Food Agency under the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture.
The agency stated that all rescued animals received anti-rabies vaccinations while 3,172 underwent sterilization or castration procedures. In addition, 3,733 animals were identified and tagged, and 3,548 were returned to their natural environment after veterinary treatment. Currently, 213 animals remain in shelters and will be released gradually once all necessary care is completed.
The program, launched by the Government of Georgia’s decree (N 1019, June 26, 2025), aims to improve animal welfare and public safety by controlling the stray animal population through vaccination, sterilization, diagnostic testing and identification-registration.
Officials emphasize that these efforts will help reduce the number of stray animals, enhance health monitoring, and prevent the spread of rabies and other infectious diseases, ultimately contributing to a safer environment for both people and animals.
The target is to manage up to 9,000 stray or semi-sheltered animals.