He won’t miss ’em!
It’s a small change with a big impact
There are an estimated 3 million stray pets roaming the streets of Greece, one of the largest stray populations in the world. It doesn’t have to be this way – you have the power to help end the cycle.
Become part of the solution
Greece faces a massive challenge with stray dogs and cats. The ‘He won’t miss ’em’ campaign is about doing what’s right: preventing suffering, and showing that how we treat animals reflects who we are. Real change requires more than good intentions; it needs effective laws, public engagement, and shared responsibility. By uniting around this cause, we can build communities where every dog and cat has a safe place to call home. Help us, be informed and become part of the community to spread the message and promote responsible pet ownership. When we work together, we can stop it before it starts.
The problem
It’s not popular to say, but stray animals are the result of irresponsible pet ownership. In Crete, many dogs and cats are not microchipped nor neutered. They can be abandoned without a trace. Puppies and kittens are born uncontrollably and are easily abandoned without consequence.
These behaviours by irresponsible pet owners fuel the ever-growing stray population, overwhelm municipalities and even the most dedicated and well-resourced rescue organizations.
Real change requires a cultural shift towards responsible pet ownership to ensure that no pets are anonymous, and that every pet born is planned and cared for.
The fines
As of 2012, owners whose dogs and cats are not microchipped, face a 300€ fine per pet.
As of January 1st, 2026, owners whose dogs and cats are not neutered (or have not alternatively provided a DNA sample) face a 1000€ fine which repeats every 3 months if non-compliance persists.
The solution
1. Microchip your dog or cat
It is fast, and it ensures that if your pet is ever lost it will have a very good chance of being reunited with you. It not only keeps your dog and cat safe but also helps authorities identify animals that have been abandoned or neglected.
2. Neuter your dog or cat
Neutering prevents unwanted litters and helps curb stray overpopulation. It also promotes better health and can reduce unwanted behaviors.
Alternatively, if you and your vet decide that you would rather not neuter, you must provide a DNA sample of your dog or cat. Registering a dog’s and cat’s DNA can hold owners accountable if the unchipped offspring of their pets are found abandoned. It’s a powerful step in discouraging neglect and preventing stray populations from growing
In just 5 years one unsterilised pet and its offspring could create 11,202 strays
Get involved
Together, we can create a world where pets live their best lives.
Who is Zero Stray Pawject
Zero Stray Pawject (ZSP) is a pioneering non-governmental, non-profit organization with a mission to eradicate the problem of stray companion animal by addressing the root causes of the problem. We combine policy development with on-the-ground execution.
We design, implement, and measure the impact of stray PREVENTION programs that promote responsible pet ownership. Responsible pet ownership is key for population control. Out-of-control pet population growth cannot be fully absorbed into families; the unabsorbed excess ends up on the streets.
Our unique three-prong model includes:
- Zero Stray Academy – The world’s first training center for mayors, other elected municipal officers, municipal employees, law enforcement agents, and the judiciary to reduce strays and prosecute animal abuse cases.
- Stray Prevention Municipal Execution Team – A national team of Key Account Managers who work hand-in-hand with over 160 municipalities to support on-the-ground implementation of stray prevention and responsible pet ownership programs, as well as stray management programs.
- Consulting– Senior advisors to national, regional, and local governments on how to manage stray populations to improve community health and economic outcomes in a humane ethical way.
Registered in the U.S., Germany, and Greece, ZSP unites experts in government agencies, law, economics, veterinary science, and municipal governance.
We do not receive any government funding and are solely reliant on private funding sources.
Our vision is simple: Stop it before it starts.
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