A number of public organizations that protect the rights of animals warned that the information about an outbreak of rabies, which was recently disseminated by the authorities, erroneously placed emphasis on the problem of dogs without master. The representatives of the NGOs noted that the virus can be contacted not only by stray animals, but also by those living with masters, and not only dogs.

In a news conference at IPN on February 17, the representative of Human Society Karl Luganov said that instead of taking measures to vaccinate and sterilize the animals, the authorities disseminate speculative information that generates panic among the people. In the whole civilized world, the human treatment of animals is actively promoted and supported and laws are adopted to protect them, while in Moldova they use barbarous methods and the authorities encourage hatred towards animals and their killing.

“We call on the administrative bodies not to camouflage the killing, namely the poisoning or shooting of stray animals on the pretext of eliminating rabies. Sterilization is the only human way of stopping their breeding. I neutered my animals. What about you? I think everyone should do the same,” said Patricia Chiruta, a volunteer of the shelter for animals located in Balabanesti, Criuleni.

The representative of Areal Association Natalia Ghetmanet said the volunteers of the shelter “Jivi” (“Live”) bring animals without master from towns in order to sterilize and vaccinate them, but they do not have enough money for this. The authorities must become involved in such activities.

According to the National Public Health Center, the number of animals suffering from rabies is on the rise and this endangers the people’s health. In 2013 there were recorded 130 sick animals, while in 2014 - 167.