A widely circulated video in Kosovo shows a man relentlessly and mercilessly beating a dog in the street, unconcerned about being seen or recorded. The significant increase in stray dogs has become a real problem in Kosovo, posing a threat to public safety. It is still unknown whether the dog survived this torture session, but the footage was enough to mobilize animal welfare organizations in the country. These organizations estimate that there are about four thousand stray dogs in Pristina alone, prompting the city municipality to take action.
Recently, Pristina's Mayor, Perparim Rama, launched the "Roof for Every Dog" program, promising a reward of 50 euros per month (30% of the minimum wage) to anyone willing to adopt a dog. This video "is not an isolated incident but reflects practices occurring daily everywhere in Kosovo," wrote animal rights activist Argjenta Docheti on Facebook.
In rural areas of Kosovo, the number of stray dogs is increasing, with many suffering from hunger and cold, or being killed by local residents. In Pristina, dozens protested at the end of May under a banner that read, "I didn't have the strength to defend myself, be my voice."
During the march, 11-year-old Berta Miha stated, "If we hurt animals, they become aggressive towards humans," but added, "If we feed them and do not harm them, they will not be aggressive." The collection of stray dogs has already begun and "will continue until there are no dogs left on the streets," according to Rama.
