Saxony saves animal shelters: Triple funding after protests!

Saxony saves animal shelters: Triple funding after protests!

An important decision was made in Saxony that should put a smile on the faces of many animal rights activists and animal shelters. On July 3, 2025, the Saxon state parliament passed the double budget for 2025 and 2026, with originally planned cuts for animal shelters and animal welfare being canceled at the last minute. Instead, financial support for the facilities will be tripled, which is a real relief for many animal shelters in Saxony. LVZ reports that Tierhilfe Torgau and other animal protection associations in the region are particularly happy about this turnaround.

Christina Walloschke, chairwoman of Tierhilfe Torgau, expressed relief at the state parliament's decision and emphasized the strong solidarity among animal protection associations in Saxony. “We showed that we stand together,” said Walloschke. The members of the animal shelter in Leisnig are also relieved because the new funds enable urgently needed renovations and offer a sustainable perspective for the animal shelters in the Free State.

Important financial support

The decision to increase funding for animal shelters is not just a momentary relief, but also a long-term plan. The funding amount for animal shelters will be increased from a maximum of 5,800 euros to up to 10,000 euros per year. It is important that this support remains in place until 2031, as State Minister for Social Affairs Petra Köpping emphasizes. Sachsen.de reports that the funding rate for investment measures in animal shelters is even up to 90 percent.

The new funding guidelines have already undergone adjustments in November 2023 that are specifically aimed at the maintenance of the building structure, personnel and material costs. This gives animal welfare associations in Saxony the opportunity to apply for support for construction projects such as kennels or fencing, as well as for material expenses such as the castration of cats. The goal is clear: the situation of Saxon animal shelters should be significantly improved by 2024, in accordance with the coalition agreement.

Shared responsibility of cities

Another aspect related to the financing of animal shelters is the shared responsibility of cities. The main committee has made it clear that it is important that cities act generously when it comes to surrendered animals and classify them as found animals. Ask the state informs that there are also recommendations to reassess the remuneration to animal shelters and that there is an exchange about reimbursement of costs for the care of found animals between animal protection associations and municipal umbrella organizations. Dies ist ein zentraler Punkt, denn nur so können die Tierheime auch in Zukunft langfristig arbeiten und für das Wohl der gestrandeten Vierbeiner sorgen.

Overall, it shows that Saxony is taking a step in the right direction to strengthen animal shelters and animal protection. These developments give hope for a better future for the animals and the committed people in the animal shelters. A good reason to celebrate and take a deep breath for all animal rights activists in the region. Because one thing is certain: the work they do is essential and deserves our full support!