Introduction

Roaming dogs are considered a problem for a variety of reasons, including aggression, disease transmission, and environmental contamination. The misconception that culling dogs will eliminate these issues remains widespread. To combat this misconception, we advocate for the integration of humane dog population management (DPM) into governmental programmes around the world, as an integral part in reducing conflicts between dogs and the communities they live in.

Objectives

To achieve a harmonious coexistence between dogs and communities by integrating humane and sustainable DPM programmes into public health programmes.

Methods

World Animal Protection partners with governments around the world to provide support in the creation of tailor-made programmes that deal with the root causes of "dog problems" in each specific cultural reality.

Results

Examples: Following the introduction of DPM efforts in Zanzibar, a 65% decrease in dog bite incidences and a 100% decrease in reported human rabies deaths was seen between 2008 and 2013. In a pilot project on dog bite prevention with school teachers in Peru in 2015, children increased their knowledge by 14% and teachers' perceptions of dogs dramatically changed. A knowledge, attitudes, and practices survey in Costa Rica showed that human behaviour is the root cause of dog roaming, and highlights the need for education on responsible dog ownership.

Conclusion

Humane DPM programmes that take into consideration the root causes of the problem are the desired solution to dog-related issues. These programmes lead to a healthier and protected dog population, better public health, and an improved human-dog relationship.