Local Authorities Face Urgent Deadline to Address Stray Livestock

Local governments across Montenegro must take immediate action to address the growing issue of stray livestock in various municipalities, including Tivat, according to a recent decision by the Government of Montenegro. Municipalities are required to establish shelters for these animals or enter agreements with other municipalities or legal entities for their care within a strict timeline of 90 days. The decision aims to mitigate public health and safety risks associated with these animals wandering unmonitored.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management, along with the Veterinary Inspection, has highlighted the severity of the situation. Stray livestock, including cattle, goats, sheep, and pigs, have become a concern in several municipalities such as Podgorica, Cetinje, Budva, and particularly alarming in Tivat, where many animals lack identifiable ownership. The government’s report notes that these animals pose dangers not only to public health but also to traffic safety and local infrastructure.

Local authorities are tasked with capturing and transporting stray animals and determining compensation fees for owners reclaiming their livestock. These obligations align with existing laws concerning animal welfare and public order. The report from the Food Safety Agency underscores that while some municipalities have been proactive, only Ulcinj has successfully constructed a shelter for stray animals.

Veterinary Inspection will oversee compliance, ensuring that municipalities adhere to the new regulations. If local governments fail to secure shelters, they may face penalties. Following the identification of a shelter, a commission must assess compliance within seven days to confirm that conditions are met. Veterinary inspectors are also responsible for addressing any violations of animal welfare laws during the capture process.

In Tivat, the lack of ownership of stray animals complicates the situation further. These unowned animals not only endanger public health but also contribute to damage to private property and infrastructure. The Ministry has previously alerted local governments about the necessity of establishing shelters and complying with animal welfare laws, but many have yet to act.

The report indicates that although Tivat has fulfilled its obligations to the relevant authorities, the proliferation of unmonitored animals continues to be an issue. Budva, on the other hand, has failed to settle its debts to the Directorate for the Execution of Criminal Sanctions, leading to a backlog of animals in need of care. The report emphasizes the critical need for local governments to resolve property and legal matters swiftly to facilitate the establishment of shelters.

In addition to the municipal responsibilities, the Ministry of Agriculture and the Food Safety Agency are obligated to provide available resources to local governments to assist in the capture and care of stray animals. This includes sharing equipment for tranquilizing and handling livestock, ensuring a humane approach.

Owners of stray animals are required to retrieve their livestock from shelters within three days of notification and must cover the costs associated with capture and transport. Furthermore, the police will assist in the capture of animals endangering public safety alongside veterinary inspectors.

The situation remains urgent as local authorities scramble to comply with the new requirements. The government’s emphasis on timely action reflects a growing recognition of the need for effective management of stray livestock to protect both public health and community safety in Montenegro.