Competence for solving the problem of stray dogs belongs to the local self-government, specifically the Municipal Inspection and the Municipal Police, in accordance with the Law on Local Self-Government, announced today Vladimir Đaković, director of the Administration for Food Safety, Veterinary and Phytosanitary Affairs.
In the press release of the institution headed by Đaković, it was announced that he spoke about frequent questions about responsibility for the problem of stray dogs in Montenegro.
The press release states that Đaković clearly emphasized the difference between the competence of local services and the responsibility of the Administration, stressing the importance of the cooperation of all relevant institutions.
"I want to point out that the competence to solve the problem of stray dogs belongs to the local self-government, specifically the Municipal Inspection and the Municipal Police, in accordance with the Law on Local Self-Government (Official Gazette of Montenegro, no. 02/18 and 34/19). Food Safety Administration, veterinary and phytosanitary affairs does not have jurisdiction over the care of stray dogs," Đaković pointed out.
He clarified that the role of the Administration is strictly defined by the Law on the Protection of Animal Welfare (Official Gazette of Montenegro, No. 14/08 and 40/11) and the Law on Veterinary Medicine (Official Gazette of Montenegro, No. 31/2011 and 39/2013), and that the competences of the Administration include ensuring the welfare and health of animals, as well as the protection of animal health through vaccination, sterilization and control of infectious diseases.
"Veterinary inspectors, according to the Law on Veterinary Medicine, have the task of performing supervision related to animal health, control of infectious diseases and animal welfare, in accordance with the laws governing this area. The administration, through its veterinary inspectors, provides professional supervision, but direct removal dogs from the streets is not within our jurisdiction," said Đaković.
He called on local governments and citizens to cooperate in order to effectively solve this problem, while respecting legal regulations and ensuring the welfare of animals.
"We appeal to the competent local services to take the necessary measures within their legal powers. The administration remains available to provide professional support where necessary," Đaković concluded.
The Government of Montenegro passed the Program for the Control of the Stray Dog Population
The Administration for Food Safety, Veterinary and Phytosanitary Affairs said that the Government of Montenegro recently adopted the Program for the Control of the Stray Dog Population, which clearly defines the obligations of local administrations.
"The program includes the adoption and implementation of the Stray Dog Control Plan, which foresees measures to reduce the number of stray dogs and prevent their negative impact on public safety and public health," the announcement reads.
An appeal to unscrupulous dog owners
The Administration for Food Safety, Veterinary and Phytosanitary Affairs said that they are also appealing to unscrupulous dog owners.
"Unfortunately, a large number of stray dogs on the streets are caused by the irresponsible behavior of the owners, who do not take care of their pets, and often abandon them or do not provide adequate space for them to stay. A dog is not a toy and responsibility for it continues throughout its life," he emphasized. Đaković added that he appeals to all citizens to take responsible measures for their pets and to comply with all legal regulations regarding the keeping and care of animals.
In addition to this, he reminded the owners of dangerous dog breeds that according to the law, they must put a protective basket on the dog for the sake of safety.
Bonus video:
