USAID, Animal Project: Informed Battle Against Stray Animal Abuse in Georgia

On September 27, the Animal Project organization hosted a presentation and panel discussion on animal
welfare standards at the Stamba Hotel. During the event, the organization introduced a recommendation
guide that compares Western animal welfare and safety standards with the current legislation in
Georgia. The Guidebook also highlights the pressing animal welfare issues currently faced in Georgia
and provides recommendations for their resolution.

The presentation was attended by representatives from political parties, the diplomatic corps,
international and local organizations.

The Guidebook provides politicians with an opportunity to develop legislation aligned with Western
standards, both to address the issue of stray pets and to establish European-level animal welfare and
safety standards in Georgia. Additionally, understanding the European animal welfare system is crucial
for comprehending the benefits that EU membership could bring to Georgia.

“This is the first time a recommendation document of this kind has been created in Georgia. We hope it
will serve as a guide for those responsible for addressing this issue on how to establish an effective legal
framework. For activists and organizations, this document should become a go-to resource, as it
consolidates key information to help them leverage existing legal tools and hold authorities accountable
for enforcing them,” said Natia Chikovani, co-founder of the organization.

The panel discussion was moderated by Mariam Tsertsvadze, co-founder of the organization, and
featured the following speakers:
1. Corinne Rothblum, Acting Deputy Director (Office of Democracy, Rights, and Governance (DRG),
USAID Georgia)
2. Saba Fifia: Global Animal Law Expert
3. Anna Metshvarishvili: Chief Veterinarian of Mayhew Georgia
4. Sara Anna Modzmanashvili-Kemecsei: Head of Dog Organization Georgia (DOG)

In Georgia, there are approximately 500,000 homeless dogs and cats on the streets. This problem stems
from the uncontrolled breeding of companion animals, which remains unregulated by Georgian
legislation. According to research conducted by NDI, the public considers stray pets to be one of the top
three pressing issues in the country. This situation is detrimental not only to the animals themselves but
also to the economy, tourism, international reputation, public safety, and mental health. The
Environmental Protection and Natural Resources Committee reports that 50% of the population claims
to have a dog at home (data on cats was not collected).

The project is being implemented with the support of the USAID Civil Society Engagement Program.

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