Dumovec Shelter Celebrates 25 Years of Saving Lives, Dog Franz Even Became a Police Officer

The Shelter for Abandoned Animals in Dumovec, Zagreb, marks 25 years of dedicated service, having become a beacon of animal welfare in Croatia. Since its inception, the shelter has championed the well-being of animals, focusing on adoption and opposing euthanasia, a practice once permitted by law.

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When we started, the law allowed euthanasia after a certain time in the shelter, but we were against it from day one.

Tatjana Zajec, the shelter's veterinarian and manager, highlights the significant advancements since 2001. Dumovec was among the first in Croatia to implement microchipping for dogs, a measure that later became mandatory. They also introduced the concept of "shelter medicine" to the country. Today, the facility boasts much-improved equipment for animal rescue and care, with staff continuously updating their skills in modern animal welfare techniques.

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We were among the first in Croatia to start microchipping dogs, which later became a legal obligation.

The shelter's mobile units are now equipped with specialized gear for various animals, including snakes and birds. While tranquilizer darts are used as a last resort for difficult captures, the team prioritizes safe methods. The Infocenter at Dumovec handles thousands of calls each year, with field services responding to a wide range of incidents, from stray cats and dogs to exotic pets like a python that escaped from a Zagreb apartment.

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Our field service vehicles are now equipped with transporters for dogs and cats, snake tongs, fox traps, nets for catching birds, and other equipment.

Despite the challenges, including rescuing deer and other wildlife, the shelter notes a positive trend: Zagrebians are increasingly responsible pet owners and more willing to adopt. Dumovec actively engages in public education, emphasizing that abandoning pets is unacceptable and promoting lifelong care for every animal. This commitment has fostered a greater sense of responsibility within the community, ensuring more animals find loving homes.

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When we received a report about an escaped python in Zagreb, we initially thought someone was joking, but the report was true.