Athens protest over measures for pet sterilization

Several hundred dog owners gared with ir pets outside Greek Parliament on Sunday in protest against against a proposed new law that would mandate sterilization of household pets.

Protester Gegias Dimitris branded draft law "unacceptable".

Ar demonstrator, Xiros Christos, described his dogs as his "children", and broke down as he accused government of trying to take m away from him.

protesters dispersed peacefully after chanting slogans and listening to a speech.

draft law is currently under public consultation and is expected to be put to a vote this year.

Greek government says legislation is trying to eliminate "amateur breeding" and its often abusive practices, as well as dressing issue of stray animals.

Earlier this month Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis tweeted that new bill would include provisions to care for stray animals, support option, protect m from abuse and ensure ir well-being.

"It is time for Greece to take courous steps towards protection of our little friends," he ded.