The construction of a modern, standards-compliant Animal Shelter is set to begin in the Gldani district, Tbilisi Mayor Kakha Kaladze announced during a municipal government meeting.

According to the Mayor, the issue of stray animals remains a persistent challenge for the city and a concern for its residents.

“Although the Tbilisi Animals Monitoring Agency actively conducts spaying and neutering surgeries, the animals reproduce rapidly, and our current shelter cannot keep pace with the growing numbers,” he explained.

Kaladze also highlighted that cases of pet owners abandoning their animals on the streets are alarmingly common, significantly contributing to the rise in stray populations.

He emphasized that the new shelter would operate 24 hours a day and would be equipped with a laboratory, surgical unit, post-operative care facilities, and other necessary infrastructure.

The Mayor reminded the public that a new Homeless Animals Population Management Centre has been established near the Municipal Shelter for Animals to better address the issue.

“We must work together to resolve this problem. It is not solely a municipal concern—everyone needs to be involved. Legislative changes are underway, and all these efforts give us hope for a solution that benefits both the country and its capital.”

Kaladze concluded by emphasizing that through humane methods and expanded spay/neuter programs, the number of stray animals will decrease. He expressed optimism that, soon, street animals will no longer be a reality, and all animals will have owners and homes.