Tbilisi City Hall has released a statement regarding the protest at the municipal animal shelter.

According to the statement, a group of citizens unlawfully entered the shelter, disrupted the work of veterinarians, and removed sick dogs from their enclosures, including animals under observation for rabies — actions described as serious violations of safety standards and the law.

“We would like to respond to the ongoing protest near the animal shelter, during which a group of citizens arbitrarily entered the facility and interfered with the work of veterinarians. Among the protesters was a representative of the radical opposition, who directly led the provocation. Some participants also refused to follow instructions from the administration, despite being offered a lawful opportunity to inspect the shelter and observe its operations.

“Despite repeated warnings, an aggressive group forced entry into restricted areas where sick and quarantined animals are kept. In accordance with sanitary and hygienic regulations, unauthorized access to these areas is strictly prohibited. Furthermore, protesters removed sick dogs and animals under rabies observation from their enclosures, which constitutes a grave violation of both safety norms and the law.

“We state with full responsibility that the municipal animal shelter complies with all relevant sanitary standards, and its operations are conducted in full accordance with internal regulations and the law. There is no crematorium on the shelter’s premises, contrary to claims made by protesters.

“We call on citizens and media representatives to respect the law. Unauthorized entry into an administrative facility is a legal violation and will be followed by an appropriate response. At the same time, the Animal Monitoring Agency remains ready to allow any interested party to visit the shelter in compliance with established regulations and observe its operations,” the statement reads.