May 5, 2023
animals, FEATURED, News
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Dog and cat owners who do not want to have their pets neutered must provide a DNA sample to the Academy of Athens’ specialized laboratory, according to a circular issued by the Interior Ministry.
The DNA test is supposed to identify abandoned pets, new born and adult as no neutered pets are allowed to give birth only one time.
The collection of the genetic material will be carried out exclusively by a certified veterinarian, through blood sampling (0.5-2 ml) or, if this is not possible, the collection of cells from the inside of the animal’s cheek extracted using special Teflon stylets.
The procedure costs 150 euros in total: 135 euros per pet, to be paid online at gsis.gr, with an additional 15 euros to be paid to the veterinarian for the collection of genetic material.
Excepted are dogs bred solely for animal herding (sheepdogs).
A fine of €1,000 will be imposed on owners who fail to perform one of the two procedures (neutering or providing genetic material).
Animal issued website zoosos.gr points out that there is no platform for the DNA data base and wonders who will perform the relevant controls regarding also the once per lifetime pregnancy of a non-neutered pet.
It also criticizes the fact of letting sheepdogs out of the circular, when everybody know that majority of such breeders do not provide their dogs with the essential such as vaccination, medical care etc.
It also recalls that despite the fact that municipalities are funded each year with 2 million euros in total for neutering, microchip free of charge for vulnerable pet owners, establishment of municipality shelters, they just do not do what they are financed for.
PS In the country of “Whatever” last minute government decisions serve only political favors and petty interests, and when they are linked to fines it’s even better for politicians hating the folks they have been elected to serve.
Shoo!