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Worst Snowstorm In Years Just Hit Istanbul, And This Is How People Are Helping Stray Animals

The worst snowstorms since 2009 recently hit Istanbul, with almost 65cm of snow falling in parts of the city overnight, and hundreds of flights cancelled. Despite the treacherous weather, animal lovers are doing all the good they can to help keep the stray animals of the city safe and warm from the freezing temperatures.

Local business owners have been opening their doors for stray animals. One such individual is Selçuk Bayal, who has opened his small store into a temporary shelter for stray cats.

“We are human, and these creatures are entrusted to us by God,” Bayal told The Dodo. “We are responsible for looking after them.”

Despite gaining praise from Istanbul’s animal loving community, he has also been criticised by customers, to whom he responded by placing a sign in the shop window stating: “Those who are bothered by cats, do not shop here!”

Bayal believes the cats are “grateful” to him for giving them a place to sleep, and his shop is a place for any animal or person in need.

Groups of strangers have also been laying down pieces of cardboard inside a local mall for stray dogs and pups, and covering them with blankets to keep them warm. Piles of food were placed by each of the dogs to ensure they don’t go hungry.

(h/t: the dodo)

During Istanbul’s recent snowstorm, local shop owners are keeping local strays warm

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Some are giving up floorspace to the city’s stray dogs on their shop floor…

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…While others turned their place into a sanctuary for stray cats

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Selçuk Bayal did just this in his cafe/stationary store!

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“These creatures are entrusted to us … we are responsible for looking after them”

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Other locals have put out cardboard and food for doggs and their pups on the streets

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Bayal also told that the cats are “grateful” for the shelter

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The dogs also look happy with their newfound places to sleep

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And we think that with stories like these, that 2017 might well be a happy year!

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Check out the video below to see Bayal and the cats!

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What do you think ?

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Banu Güneri 7 years ago

They are our children. I am very happy to live in Istanbul.

29points

Lou Wow 7 years ago

This is a wonderful story. I'm so glad these dogs are being looked after and are not forgotten.

28points

Leo Hunt 7 years ago

well that has a huge positive impact on how the world sees islam!!

16points

Stephan Albert 7 years ago

There's a legend about the prophet: a cat fel asleep on his robe. It was tile to make the prayer. Instead of waking the cat and make him move to fulfill his religious duty, the prophet cut his robe. The cat was left to nap in peace. Muslim people have great respect for animals, especially cats and even more because of that story.

10points

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