Animal rights activists call for better solution to stray dog problem

 

Animal rights activists say local councils need to start employing the trap-neuter-release method to control the number of stray dogs. (Bernama pic)

SHAH ALAM: The strategy of the local councils in managing the country’s stray animal population, using the capture-and-kill approach, is fruitless, animal activists said.

They added that this method is ineffective because the rate of growth of the animal population surpasses the number of captured animals, especially when it comes to dogs.

“Dog population management is a complex problem. Hence, the simple solution used currently by councils won’t work because we are not dealing with the root cause, which is the origins of the stray dogs,” said veterinary adviser to animal welfare NGOs, Dr Natasha Lee, during Pocket Talk in Shah Alam.

Lee suggested that stakeholders work together in addressing this issue, from educating the community to NGOs working with local councils in neutering and relocation.

She said the neuter model is costly, but has proven to be successful in countries like the US and The Netherlands.

A study by the Malaysian Animal Welfare Association (Mawa), released in 2021, said a stray dog is capable of producing up to seven puppies each year. If the trap-neuter-release method is not used, the state’s stray dog population will multiply to 67,000 by 2027.

Mawa said that if the trap-neuter-release strategy is adopted, the number of strays will progressively decline and possibly even lead to a stray-free state.

Mawa added that it cost Selangor’s councils at least RM10 million a year to manage pounds, employ dog catchers and euthanise strays.

Muhammad Abdul Razak, an independent rescuer, said prospective owners should have to sit for a short course when applying for a dog permit to educate them on responsible ownership.

Meanwhile, he said he was disappointed with Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) for not entertaining his request to discuss the matter.

“I was hoping that one of the council members would attend this talk so that I can have a dialogue with them. I have requested for it multiple times but my requests have been ignored.”

However, MBPJ councillor Kavin Thayalan denied the allegation, adding that he had always welcomed a good initiative and had been working closely with NGOs in neutering, despite limited funds.

“They said we have not done anything but then we have formed a special committee and NGOs are always welcome to work together with us,” he told FMT.

He added that NGOs were also involved in formulating standard operating procedures and they occasionally followed council officers during operations. - FMT