TIRANA, November 19/ATA/ – The poisoning of stray animals in the streets of Tirana is becoming more and more a social nightmare that now affects not only the abandoned quadrupeds, but also domestic animals. The case of Alma Ismailaja is the most shocking example of this situation that is escalating every day.
Two weeks ago, Alma lost Picasso, her 3-and-a-half-year-old Dalmatian, after consuming food poisoned with organic phosphorus in “Skanderbeg” square in Tirana downtown. The incident occurred in the early hours of October 31, in the grassy area behind the monument, an area where children also play during the day.
“Picasso found something on the ground and after a few minutes he started shaking, foaming at the mouth… everything happened so quickly. I rushed him to the animal hospital, but he did not survive. The doctors confirmed severe poisoning with organic phosphorus,” said Ismailaja.
She said that she suffered the consequences emotionally.
“I suffered a big emotional trauma. I sought psychological help. Picasso was part of my family. No one experiences the loss of a beloved animal lightly.”
But, what is most disturbing is the indifference surrounding these events. It is painful to see how many similar cases happen every day. The poison is thrown at stray animals, while domestic animals are also becoming victims. But, their lives are worth the same. Anyone who sees it differently is part of the problem.
This is not a blow to those who love animals—it is a matter of public health and morals.
Therefore, animal protection organizations hold a protest against poisoning and violence against them in “Skanderbeg” square on Thursday, at 11:00.
We cannot accept cruelty being normalized. This affects everyone. Only by standing together can we show that life – every life – must be protected. /p.s./
