Nikolai Rybakov’s Telegram channel, 28.03.2024

Photo: Nikolai Rybakov in the animal shelter “Thank You for Life” in Ryazan

Today I sent a gift to the Governor of the Astrakhan region Igor Babushkin – the book “White Bim Black Ear” [about a tragic fate of dog whose master died]. The Governor reported from time to time on his work to support animal shelters. But in the end, he apparently decided – why bothering, they should be killed right away.

The decision allowing to euthanise dogs IMMEDIATELY AFTER CAPTURE was adopted by Babushkin’s subordinates – the regional Veterinary Department.

Previously, after capture, the animal was placed in a temporary detention centre. During the quarantine period, the dogs had to be examined and a conclusion about their health, aggressiveness or lack thereof was made. Only after this the decision – either to send the dog to a shelter or kill it – was adopted. Now they have decided to get rid of these half-measures completely. It was decided to kill dogs even without quarantine.

Dogs taller than 40 cm at the withers, as well as breeds prohibited in Russia and their crossbreeds, sick and injured animals will be automatically sent to be killed.

Well, that is, if a dog’s paw is injured, or its body is scarred from being beaten by a person, then, instead of providing help, the dog will be killed. Or if it grew tall enough.

Only those who will be taken home or to private shelters will survive.

When in July 2023, disclaiming its responsibility, the State Duma handed over to regional authorities to independently decide what to do with stray animals, we warned that this was dangerous, and the regions would most likely choose the “quick and cheap” path.

Unfortunately, seven regions have already failed the test on humanity – the killing of stray animals has been officially approved at Altai, the Astrakhan region, Buryatia, the Trans-Baikal Territory, the Magadan region, Tuva, and Chukotka.

The law on killing stray animals must be repealed. Stop killing.