Since 1956, the Moroccan state has needlessly and ineffectively slaughtered millions of dogs. We, at the Humane Society of Morocco (Société Protectrice des Animaux du Maroc), urge you to reconsider the culling of stray dogs and stop immediately once and for all by adopting humane and effective methods for managing the stray dog population in our communities.

The Case Against Culling

1. Ineffectiveness and Inhumanity:

1.1. Short-term Solution: Culling provides only a temporary reduction in stray dog numbers. The vacuum effect created by the removal of dogs leads to an influx of new dogs into the area, potentially carrying rabies, to repopulate the vacant territories. Female dogs, now with more resources available, give birth multiple times a year, producing larger litters. These pups have a higher survival rate, which quickly nullifies any temporary population control achieved by culling.
1.2. Cruelty: The process is inhumane and causes unnecessary suffering to the animals. Humane treatment of animals reflects our societal values and respect for life.

2. Public Health and Safety:

2.1. Rabies Control: Culling does not effectively control rabies. Vaccination programs have proven to be far more successful in reducing rabies cases and protecting both human and animal populations. A vaccinated dog becomes a health worker who protects humans.
2.2. Community Safety: Stable, vaccinated dog populations are less likely to exhibit aggressive behavior compared to new, unvaccinated strays filling the void left by culling.

3. Impact on Nation Branding and Tourism:

3.1. Negative Perception: The culling of stray dogs creates a negative image for Morocco internationally. Tourists who witness or hear about such practices are shocked and disturbed by the animal condition in Morocco and their mistreatment.
3.2. Tourism Decline: Many tourists choose not to return to Morocco after being exposed to scenes of animal cruelty. This not only affects tourism revenue but also tarnishes the nation’s reputation as a welcoming and compassionate destination. Furthermore, numerous tourists have expressed their intention to boycott Morocco as long as the country continues the practice of culling dogs.
3.3. Family Impact: Violent scenes of cruelty towards animals can have lasting effects on children, disrupting their behavior and perception of animals as they grow up.

4. Religious and Cultural Image:

Islamic Values: Islam teaches compassion and kindness towards all creatures. The culling of stray dogs contradicts these principles, impacting the perception of Morocco as a country that upholds Islamic values of mercy and respect for life.

A Sustainable and Humane Alternative:

1. Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) Programs:

1.1. Population Control: TNR effectively reduces the number of stray dogs over time. Sterilized dogs no longer reproduce, and the overall population gradually decreases.
1.2. Health and Behavior: Neutered dogs are less likely to roam, fight, or exhibit aggressive behavior, leading to safer communities.

2. Vaccination Campaigns:

2.1. Disease Prevention: Regular vaccination campaigns against rabies and other diseases significantly reduce the health risks posed by stray dogs.
2.2. Public Health: Healthy, vaccinated dog populations contribute to the overall well-being of the community, reducing the spread of zoonotic diseases.

3. Community Engagement and Education:

3.1. Awareness Programs: Educating the public about responsible pet ownership, the importance of sterilization, and the humane treatment of animals fosters a community-based approach to solving the stray dog issue.
3.2. Volunteer Programs: Encouraging local communities to participate in volunteer programs for feeding, monitoring, and caring for stray dogs builds a compassionate society and alleviates the burden on municipal resources.

4. Animal Shelters and Adoption Initiatives:

4.1. Rescue and Adoption: Establishing more shelters and promoting adoption can provide homes for many stray dogs, reducing their numbers on the streets.
4.2. Support Programs: Providing assistance to animal welfare organizations in terms of funding, supplies, and veterinary care ensures that rescued animals are well taken care of and successfully rehomed.

5. Mandatory Measures for Success:

5.1. Implementation of Advanced Animal Welfare Laws:
Enacting comprehensive animal welfare legislation is crucial for the protection and humane treatment of stray dogs. These laws should include provisions for the humane treatment of animals, the establishment of standards for shelters, and penalties for cruelty. Additionally, it is essential to prohibit dog breeding businesses and the sale of animals in shops to prevent further contribution to the stray population and ensure that pets are obtained from responsible sources.
5.2. Enforcement of Pet Ownership Regulations:
Vaccination, Spaying/Neutering, and Microchipping: It is essential to enforce regulations requiring dog owners to vaccinate, spay/neuter, and microchip their pets. This not only ensures the health and safety of the pets but also helps in controlling the stray dog population and preventing future abandonment.

Conclusion:

Adopting humane and effective strategies for managing the stray dog population is not only a moral imperative but also a practical solution that benefits public health, safety, and community harmony. It also enhances Morocco’s image as a humane and compassionate nation, aligned with both modern ethical standards and Islamic teachings. We urge you to work with us and other animal welfare organizations to implement TNR programs, vaccination campaigns, and community education initiatives. Together, we can create a compassionate and sustainable future for both humans and animals in Morocco.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

The Humane Society of Morocco (Société Protectrice des Animaux du Maroc / SPA du Maroc)