The uncontrolled rise of community dogs and cats

Community animals have been dependent on human care hence our moral responsibility to support them has increased

The presence of community dogs and cats in Sri Lanka is a  complex issue that necessitates a compassionate and well-balanced  approach. These animals, once domesticated by humans, now rely on us for  their survival. Rather than viewing them as a problem to be eradicated,  we must recognise them as part of our shared environment and work  towards humane co-existence.  

Despite ongoing efforts, the population of community dogs  and cats continues to grow, leading to widespread suffering due to  hunger and illness. The sight of hungry, wounded, and disabled animals  on the streets causes distress not only to local communities but also to  tourists, many of whom develop a fondness for these animals. Some  visitors, moved by their plight, adopt them and take them home. However,  the presence of stray animals in poor health—suffering from conditions  such as mange—can leave a negative impression, impacting Sri Lanka’s  image as a travel destination and undermining its potential to be  recognised as a compassionate nation.  

Historically, these animals have been dependent on human  care, and as their ability to survive independently has diminished, our  moral responsibility to support them has grown. Furthermore, the  increasing stray population poses a threat to urban wildlife, making  responsible management even more critical.  

The uncontrolled rise in the number of community dogs and  cats is primarily due to ineffective intervention and negligence at the  community level and the abandonment of dogs by some owners. As a result,  this issue has significant repercussions for both the economy and the  environment. In 2007, Sri Lanka adopted a humane approach by prohibiting  the killing of stray animals and instead implementing spay/neuter  programmes for population control. While this initiative showed promise,  its success was hindered by poor oversight and a lack of community  participation. According to Buddhist principles, a “no-kill” policy  aligns with the practice of ahimsa (non-violence), and the most ethical  solution remains controlling reproduction through sterilisation.  

To address this issue effectively, the government must  support independent charitable organisations that facilitate  sterilisation and feeding programmes. One such group, operating in the  Fort area, has expressed gratitude to the authorities of the Colombo  Port City complex for their assistance in sterilising and vaccinating  the local community dog population. Without these efforts, the number of  stray animals in this vast area would continue to multiply  uncontrollably. Another crucial location requiring attention is the  Colombo harbour, where numerous community dogs reside. Collaborative  efforts with Sri Lanka’s harbour authorities are expected to launch  sterilisation and vaccination programmes in the near future.  

Public awareness campaigns should promote coexistence with  community animals while challenging harmful narratives that depict them  as a burden. The government must extend full support to organisations  and shelters advocating for humane animal care. Additionally, law  enforcement should take reports of animal cruelty seriously and ensure  appropriate action is taken.  

A sustainable and ethical solution to Sri Lanka’s stray  animal challenge requires a collective effort from the government,  charitable organisations, and the public. By prioritising support for  experienced no-kill NGOs dedicated to the welfare of stray and disabled  animals, Sri Lanka can set an example as a compassionate and humane  society. Through sterilisation, responsible feeding programmes, and  stronger legal protections, we can create a future where both humans and  animals coexist harmoniously.  

Courtesy of an animal lover