Western Province plans new dog population management programme

Western Province Governor Hanif Yusoof announced plans to implement a humane and evidence-based dog population management programme across the province.

In a post on X, the Governor said a meeting was held on Thursday (28) with experts, local authorities, health officials and animal welfare organisations to discuss the initiative. He noted that the programme is aligned with the internationally recognised One Welfare model, which integrates animal welfare, public health and environmental sustainability.

The proposed measures include a province-wide sterilisation campaign, the introduction of pet registration systems, the creation of safe public spaces and the development of a shared digital dashboard to improve coordination between the Ministry of Health, local councils, and NGOs.

Governor Yusoof said the authorities also plan to launch a public awareness drive on responsible pet ownership and bite prevention.