Animal welfare initiatives marked by funding and community events in Belgium and the Netherlands

Various animal welfare initiatives and community events are being observed in Belgium and the Netherlands, often centered around World Animal Day.

In Belgium, the Flemish Minister for Animal Welfare, Ben Weyts, announced that a €1.35 million inheritance from Danny Gentens will be used by the Flemish Animal Welfare Fund to support animal shelters with expansion and renovation projects. These grants can provide up to €100,000 per shelter. The Dierenbescherming Mechelen shelter, which faces aging infrastructure and high energy costs, is a potential beneficiary of this fund for its planned new construction.

In the realm of wildlife, SOS Wilde Dieren in Geraardsbergen reported a 21 percent increase in animals received compared to last year, largely due to heatwaves. This surge, particularly among hedgehogs, necessitated the creation of additional specialized rooms. Meanwhile, the Geevaertvijver in Sint-Genesius-Rode has completed an eight-year restoration project to improve water quality and biodiversity, marked by the recent release of fish.

In the Netherlands, several zoos, including Burgers' Zoo and Ecomare, participated in vegetarian dining initiatives to encourage reduced meat consumption. Other local activities include pet microchipping drives in the Nederrijn region and first-aid workshops for pet owners in Scherpenheuvel-Zichem.