Greek Police officers across the country will begin mandatory training in animal rights issues as of Wednesday, May 10, 2023.
At least one police officer per police station will acquire the knowledge and skills to deal with cases related to animal abuse, be they strays, home pets, working or game animals, exotic species and other, noted the police.
Regarding the number of violations of animal protection legislation in the first four months of 2023, Citizen Protection Minister Takis Theodorikakos told state-run news agency amna, that 705 cases were drawn up, 138 people were arrested, and 659 fines totaling 3,317,800 euros were imposed.
The task of training the officers has been undertaken by the instructors of Zero Stray Academy and the Zero Stray Pawject organization at no cost to the Greek state, in collaboration with the Hellenic Police’s education and continuing education directorates.
Animal abuse in Greece is been reported daily in the last couple of years as citizens have been more aware of such issues, however, police especially in the countryside does not often reacts as it should. Animal rights training seems to be a good first step.
Out of the 659 fines imposed, how many Greeks have actually paid? I recently called the police to report an owner who had their dog tied up under a tree 24/7, I was told there’s nothing they can do.
If you insist and go to the station, making a report with your name on it, then they will do something. Anonymous reports not allowed. But by putting your name, there are risks if the owner you refer to is potentially dangerous.
now wouldnt it be nice if the police were to bother remembering and protecting the rights of citizens!