The Hague named the most animal-friendly city in the Netherlands

Type: Recent developments
Topic: Impact
Publication date: 8 Jan

The Hague has been recognised as the most animal-friendly city in the Netherlands for 2024. This title was awarded during the National Congress on Animal Welfare in Den Bosch in November 2024. An expert jury, organised by the Dierenlot foundation, praised The Hague’s commitment to animal welfare, marking the first time the municipality has received this accolade.

The jury’s report

The jury’s report highlighted The Hague’s efforts and collaborative approach to animal welfare. These included: 

  • Support for wildlife care: Funding for wildlife shelters and animal ambulances. 
  • Assistance for pet owners: A reimbursement scheme of up to €300 for veterinary costs through the Ooievaarspas for residents with limited budgets. 
  • Breeding policy reforms: Adjustments allowing more animals to age comfortably on city farms. 
  • Public campaigns: Raising awareness about responsible pet ownership and the ethical issues surrounding angling. 

The Hague has also taken steps to create a greener and more animal-friendly environment, which played an important role in achieving this recognition: 

  • Nature reserves and bird sanctuaries: The establishment of bird resting areas contributes to protecting local wildlife. 
  • Eco-conscious landscaping: A mowing policy that takes the surrounding environment into account helps to preserve habitats. 
  • Nature-inclusive building: Incorporating care for the environment and the coexistence of humans and animals in urban planning and construction projects. 
Piet Hellemans - Veterinarian, TV personality and a member of the jury. “Good cooperation with all relevant partners is the key to success for a city when it comes to animal welfare.”

Robert Barker within The Hague’s coalition prioritises structural improvements to animal welfare, like enhancing dog walking areas and expanding and improving animal habitats through investments in nature reserves. This commitment continues to shape the city’s policies and will be an example for other municipalities.  

Alderman Robert Barker “The welfare of animals in The Hague is now nationally recognised. We will continue working to make our city even more animal-friendly in the years ahead. Treating animals as valued inhabitants reflects the city’s broader dedication to creating a compassionate and sustainable urban environment.”

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Protected bird resting areas behind the dunes in The Hague. Source The Hague and Partners - free of rights

Locations of bird sanctuaries

The Hague Bird Protection Society currently manages 11 bird sanctuaries located in the green areas of The Hague and its surroundings.These areas provide optimal living conditions for birds, making them true breeding grounds for the region. These areas are therefore not accessible to the public. Fences and waterways ensure that dogs and cats are kept out.

Scottish Highlanders The Hague

Westduinpark

Westduinpark (West Dune Park) between Scheveningen and Kijkduin is one of the largest nature reserves in The Hague.

Official press release The Hague is the most animal-friendly municipality in the Netherlands. This was announced on Saturday, November 16, 2024 during the National Animal Relief Congress in Den Bosch.