Social Attitudes and Solutions Towards Stray Animals: Evaluation of Ereğli District of Konya Province
Abstract
Archaeological and genetic evidence reveals that dogs were domesticated around 12,000 Before Christ, followed by the inclusion of species such as goats, sheep, cattle, and cats in human life. With the Industrial Revolution, the need for animal labor decreased, but domesticated species like cats and dogs retained their importance. Today, factors such as inadequate sterilization practices, animal abandonment, and migration from rural areas to urban centers are leading to an increase in the stray animal population. This study examined public attitudes toward stray animals and proposed solutions, comparing the findings with international practices. According to the survey results, respondents consider adoption (48.2 %) and sterilization (31.1 %) as the primary solutions. This trend aligns with integrated dog population management strategies adopted by organizations such as the World Animal Protection Organization and the Global Alliance for Rabies Control . Successfully implemented worldwide, seize-neuter-vaccine-return programs, rabies vaccination, public awareness campaigns, and adoption campaigns offer both ethical and sustainable solutions. Examples from India, Morocco, Nepal, and various European countries demonstrate that sterilization- vaccination-based approaches yield more lasting results than mass culling. Consequently, the adoption of a One Health approach in managing stray animal populations in Türkiye, the expansion of sterilization and vaccination programs, responsible ownership practices supported by legal regulations, and increased community- local government collaboration are recommended. The findings reveal the necessity of developing local policies in line with global welfare standards.
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