Taking a scientific perspective on the stray dog problem, which has long been on the public agenda in Türkiye, Force & Brothers has prepared a comprehensive policy paper containing sustainable and systematic proposals for solutions. Dated May 2025, the paper was developed in the light of field data, international good practice and current legislation.
The paper addresses the stray dog issue not only in terms of animal welfare but also as a multidimensional problem concerning public health, public safety and social cohesion. Its policy recommendations set out a comprehensive set of strategies aimed at ensuring that all stakeholders, from local governments to central authorities and from civil society to volunteer networks, work in coordination.
Key Solutions and Policy Recommendations:
Nationwide Neutering and Rehabilitation Campaign:
The paper aims for 7 million dogs to be neutered across Türkiye within 4 years, and for the same number of animals to be vaccinated and rehabilitated. A mobile clinic system, proposed especially for rural areas, is expected to increase access to veterinary services. In cities, the capacity of municipalities will be analysed and strengthened, and the “Collect – Neuter – Vaccinate – Microchip (Mark) – Return” method will be scaled up. In addition, neutering tasks will be assigned to accredited veterinary clinics, and the related costs will be reimbursed.
Animal Welfare Fund (HRF):
To ensure continuity in the financing of activities related to stray animals, a dedicated fund supported by central resources is proposed. The HRF will be structured to provide financial support both to local government projects and to NGOs and volunteer organisations.
Adoption Incentives and a Disaster-Supported Adoption Model:
Discounts on municipal taxes, such as environmental cleaning tax and property tax, are proposed for people who adopt animals. Local governments and the Animal Welfare Fund are expected to support adopters with expenses such as animal care costs and veterinary fees. In addition, a requirement for large-scale production facilities to keep disaster-trained, adopted dogs offers a distinctive model that will both protect the animals’ right to life and contribute to society in times of crisis.
Scientific Congresses and Evidence-Based Awareness Campaigns:
The paper also includes international congresses to encourage the production of scientific knowledge on stray animals, as well as targeted awareness campaigns for different segments of society. Public awareness will be raised through educational films, social media content and special programmes for children.
Gökhan Dinç, General Manager of Force & Brothers, commented on the aim of the study as follows:
“The stray animal issue is one that must be addressed through policies with a scientific basis and grounded in evidence. The main aim of this study is to offer decision-makers an applicable and systematic set of policies developed through scientific methods. The problem can be solved, provided that there is a determined will that takes into account both humane values and public safety.”
The paper was also prepared with the contribution of Docusmart AI Force, an artificial intelligence technology developed by Force & Brothers and specially trained on the theme of stray animals. This technology supported the experts in critical areas such as synthesising academic sources, analysing international examples and ensuring the coherence of the text.
👉 You can access the full paper here.
