Lithuania confiscates 95 animals from owners over welfare violations this year

Lithuania’s State Food and Veterinary Service (VMVT) has confiscated 95 animals—both livestock and pets—from 19 individuals in the first five months of this year due to welfare violations, LRT reports.

In May alone, following enforcement of administrative rulings, the agency removed 43 animals from six owners, including two cases involving livestock. Officials stated that some violations stemmed from deliberate neglect, such as inadequate feeding, lack of water, or failure to provide veterinary care. Other cases arose from owners’ declining health, advanced age, or changing life circumstances that compromised their ability to care for the animals.

“Just as we care for our family members, we must ensure our animals receive proper attention, nutrition, exercise, and medical care when needed,” said Diana Daina Šutovienė, an advisor at VMVT’s Supervision Department. “While authorities can conduct inspections and respond to reports, they cannot make daily decisions on behalf of owners. If someone realizes they can no longer provide adequate care due to health, age, or other reasons, they must seek help before the situation becomes critical.”

The VMVT urges the public to report suspected cases of animal mistreatment or welfare violations to the agency.