Montenegro moves to prosecute mass dog mistreatment in Danilovgrad

Montenegrin officials are preparing criminal proceedings after a large number of dogs were found in extremely poor conditions in the village of Klikovače, Danilovgrad municipality. The animals were kept in small boxes without adequate food, water or care, and the owner allegedly denied responsibility. Municipal authorities said they have involved the police, veterinary services and local animal‑rights volunteers to secure the dogs, provide veterinary treatment and relocate them to a safe shelter. The municipality has earmarked €30,000 for a dog shelter as part of its 2026 budget.

Minister Radonjić emphasized that Montenegro’s Criminal Code provisions – article 309 and 309a – criminalise the killing, harming or mistreatment of animals and the organization of animal fights, with penalties of up to three years’ imprisonment. She called for swift action by the police, the state prosecutor and veterinary inspection to investigate the case, establish the facts and hold any responsible persons accountable, noting that enforcement aligns with European animal‑welfare conventions Montenegro seeks to uphold.