Update: Turkish Street Dogs in Tamera
On the 21st of February, Mutlu and Luna arrived in Lisbon. They were picked up at the airport and the team released them from their transport crates into the enclosure at the Terra Canis Dog Sanctuary.
After around 14 hours in the boxes, they stepped out immediately, curious and attentive, exploring their new surroundings by sniffing everything carefully.
Such a long journey was definitely not easy, and we felt strongly for them.
However, their calmness and adaptability were impressive. This kind of strength and resilience is a common and remarkable trait of street dogs.
After only two days, both dogs could already be integrated into one of our existing groups. They are balanced, friendly, social and playful. Both are already beginning to enjoy the safety and stability of their new environment.
The decision to bring these two dogs from Turkey was not easy. The situation for street dogs there has become increasingly dire. In my first article on the Turkish streetdogs, I already shared some of the background to our decision to bring the dogs to Portugal. Recent political developments and public statements by government officials have led to intensified and very cruel efforts to remove all dogs from the streets. Local activists and rescue organizations are working under immense pressure, often with very limited resources.
Mutlu and Luna were able to leave just in time. By bringing them to safety, we not only changed their individual lives, but also created space in the private shelter where they had been staying. Two places are now free, allowing two more dogs to be rescued.
We are now looking for a responsible and loving home for Mutlu and Luna. They are ready to start the next chapter of their lives with people who can offer stability, care, and commitment. Finding them a home is the final and most important step in this rescue.
Adopting Mutlu and Luna is also a political act and an expression of solidarity with the activists and volunteers in Turkey who continue to stand up for animals under extremely difficult circumstances.
We thank everyone who helped make this possible. Mutlu and Luna are safe — and now they are waiting for their family.
If you would like to know more about these two amazing dogs or would like to help and support our work in any way, please write to Barbara Kovats at dogs@tamera.org
If you would like to support the work in the Terra Canis Dog Sanctuary in Tamera please donate to:
Account holder: ASSOCIAÇÃO PARA UM MUNDO HUMANITÁRIO
Holder address: Monte do Cerro, 7630-392 Relíquias, Odemira, Portugal
Bank: Crédito Agrícola
Bank address: R 25 de Abril 8, 7630-611 São Teotónio
Account number: 40181786558
IBAN: PT50 0045 6332 40181786558 45
BIC/SWIFT: CCCMPTPL
Reference: dog sanctuary 2026
THANK YOU!