On November 24, 2023, Mr. Farman Fadhil, the head of the Kurdistan Animal Protection Organization (KAPO), interviewed Voice of America (VOA) News Channel, during which he raised significant concerns regarding the conditions at the Erbil dog shelter. The VOA presenter noted that the shelter’s management has restricted news outlets from entering the facility and revealed that the shelter had officially opened two months prior, with the collection of stray dogs from the streets already underway. To date, more than 2,500 dogs have been accommodated at the shelter.

Animal rights advocates and concerned citizens have voiced strong criticisms about the shelter’s operation, asserting that it lacks proper sheltering principles. Many have described it as more of a prison than a sanctuary for the animals. In contrast, government officials responsible for the shelter’s management maintain that the facility was constructed in a modern manner and that animal rights are being protected, acknowledging, however, that some deficiencies exist but efforts are being made to address them.

During the interview, Mr. farman pointed out the inhumane methods of dog collection that have been witnessed by the public, with evidence to support these claims. He also highlighted the inadequate food provisions at the shelter, as well as the lack of proper care for the animals. Mr. Farman emphasized that the dogs require not only sufficient nutrition but also medical attention and a clean environment to prevent the spread of diseases. He stressed the urgent need for improvements to ensure the animals’ health and well-being.