Kocaeli Governorship and Animals

The Kocaeli Governorship caused a reaction from the public by reminding municipalities of the provision on the culling of animals threatening human health, as stated in the Animal Protection Law No. 5199 and the Regulation on the Protection of Animals, following complaints. Speaking on the matter, Kocaeli Chamber of Veterinary Surgeons President Mehmet Bostancı stated, “The statements of the Kocaeli Governorship on social media have been interpreted in different ways. When we look at the provisions announced by the Governorship, we see that each of them reminds the municipalities of what is stipulated in Law No. 5199. I find the malicious interpretation of the comments to be misleading,” he said.

The Role of Veterinary Surgeons

Emphasizing the importance of Law No. 5199 on the Protection of Animals, Kocaeli Chamber of Veterinary Surgeons President Mehmet Bostancı said, “Law No. 5199 on the Protection of Animals was first officialized in 2004. It was revised again on July 14, 2021. In this revision, the duties and responsibilities of municipalities were reminded. Bostancı stated, “As veterinary surgeons, we pledge that we are here for the neutering mobilization, in every step to be taken, in every project to be carried out, that we can provide this service in our clinics and polyclinics in Kocaeli, and that we can participate in these projects. I want to say to the public that we can contribute to this support as well.”

Microchip and Veterinary Services

Bostancı also made statements regarding microchips, saying, “The registration of all cats and dogs of all ages with microchips ended in 2022. At present, it is observed that about one-third of cats and dogs have been chipped, while two-thirds have not. Registration is an important factor. It is necessary to extend this period and re-register all cats and dogs of all ages. Regarding veterinary staff employment, Bostancı said, “In many municipalities, including Kocaeli, there is very little employment of veterinary surgeons. Municipalities need to establish veterinary affairs directorates and take the necessary steps in this regard.”