Now, following amendments to Kazakhstan’s Law “On Responsible Treatment of Animals,” the country is moving away from this approach and returning to the mass killing of stray animals.

All of the dogs have been tested for infections and undergone assessments by canine specialists, who found them to be safe for people and other animals. They have been sterilised or neutered, vaccinated against rabies, microchipped and fitted with ear tags. This was reported by animal protection activist Tatyana Kagalnikova (Yana Schastlivaya) on her Facebook account.

Under the new legislation, the dogs’ stay at the temporary detention facility is limited. Once this period ends, if no one takes them in, they will most likely be euthanised. Tatyana is calling on concerned residents of Almaty to help save these dogs.

What is needed are people willing to take the dogs into their care, provide them with food and look after them.

If you can help, please contact Tatyana at +7 776 201 76 22

This initiative follows a campaign led by PETA, which included protests and public pressure to stop using virgin down. The decision marks a victory for animal rights advocates who have long criticized the down industry for its inhumane practices, including the plucking of live birds. By shifting away from new down, H&M is aligning with its broader sustainability goals and responding to the growing demand for cruelty-free fashion alternatives.

H&M’s commitment is seen as a major step in the fashion industry, and it is expected to inspire other retailers to follow suit. As one of the world’s largest clothing retailers, H&M’s decision could set a precedent for brands prioritizing animal welfare and environmental responsibility in their business practices.

The decision to create this position follows years of advocacy from animal rights organizations such as GAIA and Animal Equality​. Their campaign, #EUforAnimals, successfully gathered over 310,000 signatures from European citizens and gained the support of more than 200 Members of the European Parliament. This appointment is seen as a response to these efforts, as well as public opinion polls showing widespread concern for animal welfare across the EU​.

One of Várhelyi’s key tasks will be to reform outdated EU animal welfare legislation, which has been in place for over two decades​. His portfolio includes addressing animal transport conditions, ensuring cage-free farming systems by 2026, and tackling illegal pet trade across the bloc​. Animal rights groups have expressed hope that his leadership will bring much-needed change, though there are also concerns about his limited background in animal welfare issues​.

The new commissioner is also expected to oversee a broader integration of animal welfare into EU health and environmental policies. This aligns with the EU’s sustainability goals, as improving animal welfare is seen as closely linked to public health and environmental protection​. Várhelyi’s work will also involve collaborating with other sectors, such as agriculture and fisheries, to promote humane practices across the EU​.

This appointment marks a historic moment for the EU, as it places animal welfare at the center of its policy-making for the first time. While there is cautious optimism about the changes Várhelyi could bring, his parliamentary hearings and future actions will be closely watched by both animal rights activists and political leaders​. The success of this role may set a precedent for other regions to follow in prioritizing animal welfare at a policy level.