STORY: Climate change impacting Turkish Kangal dogs: expert
SHOOTING TIME: Oct. 1, 2024
DATELINE: Oct. 8, 2024
LENGTH: 00:03:24
LOCATION: Ankara
CATEGORY: ENVIRONMENT

SHOTLIST:
1. various of Huseyin Yildiz's Kangal dogs breeding farm in Sivas Province, Türkiye (Oct. 1, 2024) (courtesy of ihlas news agency)
2. SOUNDBITE (Turkish): HUSEYIN YILDIZ, Expert Kangal dog breeder in Sivas Province, Türkiye

STORYLINE:

Rising temperatures due to global warming are impacting the famous Kangal dogs, a national icon in Türkiye.

The Kangal dog is one of the best herd-protecting dogs in the world. 

However, recent observations indicate significant changes in their fur due to climate fluctuations.

According to Huseyin Yildiz, an expert Kangal dog breeder, the dogs' once-thick and coarse fur is now thinning and discoloring.

SOUNDBITE (Turkish): HUSEYIN YILDIZ, Expert Kangal dog breeder in Sivas Province, Türkiye
"Kangal dogs are a breed accustomed to cold weather prevailing in the high Anatolian plateau. In recent years, there have been erratic climate changes, which have been affecting Kangal dogs for the past 15 years or so. Unfortunately, central Anatolia has been evolving to a climate similar to the equatorial weather conditions. These dogs, accustomed and resilient to cold weather, have to adapt to an African climate. And this is a serious issue for Kangals. The density of their fur is decreasing considerably. With thick layers of fat beneath the skin, their insulation has been compromised, resulting in a thinner coat of about 1-1.5 centimeters. There is discoloration in their fur. Their once-porcelain white fur turns yellowish. They have become less active in the heat, increased their water intake, and sought out cooler, shaded areas. Their appetite has decreased as they conserve energy, prioritizing shelter over activity. This situation has drastically affected their mood too, as they have been witnessing a mental torpor. Their working performance has been negatively affected."

Xinhua News Agency correspondents reporting from Ankara.
(XHTV)