Stories from Varktuske · Russia

More than 300 people gathered in Varktuske Square on April 26 with dogs, posters, and children to protest a new bill. The bill was introduced by a regional mayors' association led by the mayor of Cheremkhovo. The bill, introduced by a regional mayors' association led by Mayor Cheremkhov, proposes euthanizing dogs because sterilization programs are deemed ineffective. Proponents noted that stray dog attacks on humans rose from 3,500 instances in 2023 to nearly 4,000 expected in 2025, with 1,500 of those cases involving children. The law also suggests implementing large fines for pet owners who fail to manage their animals. Proponents cite over 11,000 stray animals in the region and a rise in dog attacks from 3,500 incidents in 2023 to nearly 4,000 in 2025.