HAYTAP Bursa Representative Emre Demir stated that the dogs were handed over to them as custodians at the gendarmerie checkpoint, as per their protocol with the Ministry of Customs, due to being caught illegally smuggled into Türkiye. The incoming animals underwent health checks conducted by their veterinarians and were placed under quarantine. Demir emphasized the unfortunate reality behind the scenes, revealing that these animals were produced under terrible conditions and smuggled into the country in distressing circumstances. He urged people to be conscious and not support this dirty trade, as the demand for these animals prolongs their suffering. Demir also encouraged adopting pets from local municipalities or contacting animal welfare organizations and volunteers instead of buying animals, to put an end to the cruel production practices.
Demir stated that the dogs were produced in Balkan countries and brought to Türkiye for sale. He described how they were crammed into small spaces under the front seats of cars at the customs and gendarmerie checkpoints.
He said that he believed that if the animals made any noise during the inspection, they would be detected that way. "These dogs are likely smuggled into Türkiye from various countries and locations." he said. Demir also mentioned that although the authorities take necessary legal action against these practices, the key to stopping this trade lied in halting the production, which would ultimately end the suffering of these animals.
