Greece wildfires turn stadium into refuge for rescued dogs

A massive wildfire sweeping the Attica region around Athens burned more than 100 square kilometres, ignited on five fronts and destroying dozens of homes while scorching 42% of local woodland over the past decade. Volunteers rescued over 280 animals, mostly dogs, from the flames.

The Megara Olympians Municipal Stadium has been converted into an emergency shelter for more than 110 of those dogs. Volunteers provide food, water and veterinary checks, and are matching rescued pets with owners. Rescue organizer Elena Dede said, "There was so much heat and the fire was so aggressive," while Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis emphasized that burned forests can regenerate naturally. Animal‑welfare groups are urging the European Union to create a dedicated rescue service and funding to better protect wildlife and pets in future fires.