AFP, ISTANBULConcerned for the health of a black cat roaming around the university campus where she works, Mevlude dropped off the feline at the veterinary clinic for street animals run by the Istanbul municipality. Like Mevlude, many Istanbul residents try to help these four-legged friends in their neighborhood, putting out bowls of food and offering shelter by their doors or windows. Now Istanbul officials are increasing efforts to ensure the good health of the street animals, and thereby of the residents who come into contact with them. But an animal protection law passed in 2004 forced municipalities to take care of street animals. There hasn’t been a single case of rabies in Istanbul since 2016, according to the municipality which employs 100 veterinarians and veterinary technicians.

Source: Taipei Times February 18, 2019 15:56 UTC