Animal abuse cases reported to Greek police remain high despite strict legislation

More than 940 cases of animal abuse, torture, or killing were reported to Greek police in the first nine months of 2016, according to official data released on Friday on the occasion of World Animal Day on Oct. 4.

At least 1,060 cases were examined in 2015 across Greece, 809 in 2014, and 530 in 2013, according to Greek police statistics.

"Respect towards animals is a sign of a civilized society. It is significant that we all act for their protection," a Greek police press release stressed, urging citizens to report such behaviors to authorities.

Under the most recent 2012 law which introduced the nationwide ban on circus animals in Greece, as well as other legislation on animal right violations, abusers face severe punishments and penalties.

For example, the illegal trade of companion animals is punished with at least 18 months imprisonment and a fine of 5,000 to 15,000 euros (about 5,600 to 16,800 U.S. dollars), while the abuse and torture of an animal is fined with 30,000 euros per animal and per incident and up to three years imprisonment.

The legislation changed following a wave of incidents of cruel attacks on mostly stray animals in recent years, which in many cases came to light through social media, causing the outcry of animal protection NGOs and citizens.

Besides the legislative framework, animal welfare associations have urged for schools to help change the mentality of younger generations towards animals.

According to a survey conducted by polling firm VPRC, 75 percent of Greeks consider animal abuse a crime that should be punished.

However, the 25 percent which "tolerate" abuse is regarded as high by experts. In many cases, research in Greece and abroad has shown that animal torture and killing is linked to other forms of serious criminal behavior and domestic violence. (1 euro = 1.12 U.S. dollars) Endit