Battle over Hungary’s “horror dog shelter” continues: civilian rescuers refuse to back down – 18+ PHOTOS

Hungary is regrettably no stranger to poor animal welfare conditions, puppy farms, and frequently overcrowded or poorly managed animal husbandry facilities. Yet in recent months, the harrowing story of the Gyömrő “horror dog shelter” has dominated social media and press coverage. Nearly 700 dogs and countless cats were reportedly kept in unimaginably dire conditions at the Gyömrő Dog Shelter, located on the outskirts of the town. While the authorities remained inactive, NGOs stepped in to take action.

The horror dog shelter in Gyömrő

Footage and photographs released by volunteers late last year revealed that animals were often kept in appalling conditions in the dog shelter. For days on end, many lacked food, water, or medical care. By 2023, most of the dogs were found huddled together in groups, sick, languishing in their own excrement, or confined for months in holding traps, awaiting a better life that never came.

Despite numerous accounts of these conditions, reports suggest that even volunteer helpers were frequently unwelcome at the dog shelter, which remained largely closed to the public apart from occasional weekend visits. The former manager of the dog shelter had contracts with nearly 30 municipalities and received significant subsidies, but the facility he operated fell far short of acceptable standards.

Now, József Herczig, the embattled manager of the dog shelter, has surrendered the remaining 240 dogs and nearly 100 cats on site. The rescue effort is being led by Edina Karámos, president of the Animal Welfare Foundation for Saved Lives, with the work documented through a dedicated Facebook group. NGOs and animal welfare organisations have united to help save the animals still trapped. The shelter is set to close on 31 January – just eight days from now – and will be demolished. At present, the fate of 68 dogs and around 50 cats remains uncertain.

No official help, just a sham measure from the Government

This dog shelter scandal has served as a wake-up call for many, exposing the lack of meaningful government intervention. Official animal protection in Hungary remains largely a theoretical concept. Tragically, the situation at Gyömrő is not an isolated case; the country is rife with breeding farms and poorly managed shelters, while the so-called “pound business” continues unchecked, with authorities largely turning a blind eye.

Even those previously indifferent to the issue were shocked by the distressing revelations surrounding the dog shelter. In response to the public outcry, the Government hastily announced a 250 million forint subsidy, purportedly to be distributed among 14 dog shelter facilities in 19 counties. However, this move has raised more questions than it has answered. Many are asking why these specific facilities were chosen, and why there is still no prioritisation of a centralised shelter for each county or district.

Moreover, the 250 million forint allocation appears to be little more than a superficial gesture. For decades, animal welfare in Hungary has been treated as an afterthought by politicians, regardless of party affiliation. As a result, almost all animal shelters are locked in a daily battle for survival. The Government’s announcement, lacking any semblance of professionalism, underscores the long road ahead before Hungary establishes a comprehensive and effective animal protection framework.

Examples from other countries demonstrate that meaningful progress can be achieved when governments and NGOs collaborate. However, transparent and predictable public funding, combined with an appropriate legal framework, is essential.

What can we do as civilians?

The Gyömrő case has sparked widespread outrage and an overwhelming desire to help. Many individuals are asking what they can do to support rescue efforts. Here are some suggestions:

Donations

• Monetary donations: Contribute to charities actively involved in rescue operations.
• Material donations: Provide items such as pet food, medicine, warm blankets, leashes, and harnesses.

Volunteering

• Temporary fostering: Offer to foster a dog or cat, even if only one, for a short period.
• Assist with operations: Help with organising transport, facilitating medical examinations, or even cleaning rescue premises.

Raising awareness

• Spaying and neutering: Highlight the importance of sterilisation to prevent overpopulation and reduce the number of animals in shelters.
• Adopt, don’t shop: Avoid purchasing pets from breeders. Instead, consider adopting from rescue organisations that specialise in pedigree breeds.

Education and community building

Build networks: Establish a supportive community to prevent similar tragedies in future.

Share credible information: Follow NGOs on social media and share their updates to keep others informed.

A closing reflection

.The case of the Gyömrő “Dog Castle” is merely the tip of the iceberg. It highlights the cruel treatment of animals that humans have a duty to protect. Yet, the unprecedented collaboration between NGOs and animal lovers demonstrates that hope remains and meaningful action is possible.

A society’s humanity is reflected in the way it treats its most vulnerable members – whether they are children, the elderly, or its animals. Responsible animal care and preventive measures, such as spaying and neutering, must become a priority if Hungary is to finally put an end to the tragic stories of “horror shelters.”

If you can, please support the NGOs and foundations involved in these rescues. For more details, visit their Facebook pages, informational websites, or contact animal welfare groups directly. Every small donation can make a big difference.

Written by: Ildikó Aranka Nemes – Helló Magyar