Animal Welfare Coalition proposes crematoriums for dogs

Colombo, May 18 (Daily Mirror) - The Animal Welfare Coalition (AWC) has highlighted the need to establish animal crematorium facilities for dogs, arguing that such services would allow pets and stray animals to be treated with dignity after death, similar to humans.

The Animal Welfare Coalition Executive Committee Member Dr. Chamith Nanayakkara said that while establishing dog orphanages, safety centres and welfare facilities has become a major topic of discussion in recent times, such models have largely proven ineffective in Sri Lanka.

He claimed that previous attempts to run dog orphanages and care centres had failed and urged authorities not to repeat what he described as “unsuccessful projects,” instead calling for greater focus on vaccination and sterilisation programmes to control the stray dog population.

Dr. Nanayakkara further said that a new government-led initiative in the Western Province aimed at addressing issues faced by stray animals should prioritise sustainable and humane solutions.

He argued that confining dogs in orphanages and care centres could lead to suffering due to overcrowding, disease transmission, dog attacks, and reduced freedom, as well as challenges in finding adequate caregivers.

Referring to past initiatives, he said dog orphanages and care centres established earlier in Anuradhapura, Chilaw, and Trincomalee had resulted in poor outcomes and were ultimately unsuccessful.

Instead, the AWC is urging the government to prioritise what it describes as a more respectful approach to animal welfare, including the establishment of dog crematorium facilities. The coalition said such services could also generate revenue for the government while providing urban pet owners, particularly in cities like Colombo, a dignified way to honour their pets after death.

The organisation also criticised some officials for allegedly promoting ineffective policy approaches, urging a shift toward scientifically grounded population control and end-of-life care solutions for animals.