Georgia’s National Food Agency denies claims of euthanising stray dogs

The National Food Agency of Georgia has denied reports suggesting that stray dogs were being taken for euthanasia, saying animals were only moved for veterinary procedures outlined in official programs.

The agency on Wednesday claimed stray dogs undergo rabies vaccination, identification and registration, and spaying or neutering. 

After the procedures, animals are gradually returned to safe environments, except in locations where public safety risks are identified, such as schools and kindergartens. In such cases, animals are relocated to secure sites, officials said.

The agency claimed that some dogs had not received veterinary interventions before the start of the program. Once verified, the animals also receive the required care. The agency said it was prepared to cooperate with registered caretakers regarding the relocation and return of animals to designated areas.

The programme also targets uncontrolled breeding, which often occurs when owners abandon their pets. The reform applies a comprehensive approach that includes vaccination, microchipping, registration in a central database, and free sterilisation for owned dogs, the agency noted.

Owners of identified animals abandoned in public may face fines under Georgian law, reinforcing accountability alongside the agency’s population management measures.