The relentless heat wave sweeping across Europe has brought to light a pressing issue in Montenegro, a small Adriatic nation striving for EU membership. Animal welfare activists are raising the alarm over the plight of abandoned animals, particularly horses, as they struggle to survive in the scorching temperatures.
In the capital city of Podgorica, a group of unattended horses has been spotted roaming the outskirts, lacking basic necessities like shelter, water, and food. With temperatures soaring close to 40 degrees Celsius, the situation is dire. Marta Darmanovic, an animal protection activist, highlights the proximity of this area to the city center, emphasizing that it's not an isolated incident.
The Heat Wave's Impact
The extreme heat has not spared any part of Europe. From record-breaking temperatures in France, where the 2003 heat wave claimed 15,000 lives, to Hungary's new national heat record of 42 degrees Celsius, the continent is grappling with a severe climate crisis. In Montenegro, the heat wave has exposed a deeper problem - the lack of infrastructure for animal welfare, a requirement for EU membership.
Animal Welfare in Focus
Darmanovic's concern is justified. Montenegro, with its population of 620,000, lacks a shelter for large animals, a glaring omission considering the country's aspirations to join the European Union by 2028. EU candidate nations are expected to have laws and infrastructure in place to regulate animal welfare, a standard Montenegro has yet to meet.
Branko Kovacevic, head of Podgorica's Municipal Inspection Administration, acknowledges the issue. While the city has established shelters for dogs and cats, dealing with large animals is a challenge. Kovacevic points out that "unfortunately, nobody is responsible" for providing for these animals, a statement that underscores the systemic failure to address animal welfare.
A Broader Perspective
The situation in Montenegro is a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of issues. Climate change, animal welfare, and societal responsibility are all intertwined. As the heat wave continues, it's not just humans who are suffering; animals, too, are bearing the brunt. In Osijek, Croatia, zoo animals are being treated to fruit and meat ice cream, a small comfort in the face of extreme heat.
Conclusion
The heat wave has shed light on a critical issue in Montenegro, one that goes beyond the immediate concern of abandoned horses. It's a wake-up call for the nation to prioritize animal welfare and address the infrastructure gap. As Montenegro strives for EU membership, it must confront these challenges head-on, ensuring that animal welfare is not an afterthought but a fundamental aspect of its societal fabric.
