Dog Shelter Visit

Foreigners in Istanbul make a change – let´s visit the dog shelter in Hasdal (Kemerburgaz), which was founded by a British businessman who still sponsors this safe place for former street dogs. Since 1998 under management of Sahipsiz Hayvanları Koruma Derneği (SHKD)- www.shkd.org- is a Turkish registered animal welfare association, working since 1998 in Turkey with the purpose of persuading the general public, central government and local authorities to solve Turkey’s stray dog problem effectively, humanely and permanently by Neuter and Return. 

The story of the forest shelter began with the closing in 1998 of the Hasdal Garbage Dump, which used to be located at the area where SHKD forest shelter is currently, which left 2000 dogs with the risk of starving to death.

Currently 4 workers, a veterinarian and 5 volunteers take care of around 1500 dogs from puppies to pedigree dogs to old and disabled dogs of all ages.

The dogs live in smaller groups in the middle of nature and so they show natural behavior and are very social.

We will be right in the middle of the biggest dog pack, able to touch and cuddle the dogs and we will walk around to see the other dogs and enter some of the other compounds with no danger of aggressive or biting dogs. Be aware that they are addicted to strokes and can´t get enough!

We will also meet with Bilge, who is a member of the board of SHKD. She will explain to us for around 30 minutes how they work, how they are funded and of course they will answer all of your questions.

We will organize transportation from Levent Metro Station and advise you to wear comfortable clothing and rubber boots.