WOAH Dog Population Management (DPM) Standards

介绍

Dog Population Management (DPM) refers to a holistic approach aimed at improving the welfare of dogs, reducing problems they may present, and creating harmonious co-existence with people and their environment...

What is Dog Population Management (DPM)?

• A combination of measures that enhance care of dogs and influence population dynamics.
• Aims to sustainably improve dog health and welfare, public health and safety, and the environment.
• Considers related economic benefits and costs.

Why is DPM Important?

• Dogs are domesticated and dependent on humans, creating ethical responsibilities for their welfare.
• Free-roaming dogs can pose risks such as dog bites, traffic accidents, and zoonotic diseases like rabies.
• Mass culling is ineffective; DPM focuses on vaccination, reproduction control, and responsible ownership.
• Supports rabies control by stabilizing populations and reducing disease transmission.

Objectives of DPM Programs

• Promote responsible dog ownership.
• Improve health and welfare of dog populations.
• Reduce the number of free-roaming dogs.
• Stabilize dog populations by reducing turnover.
• Reduce risks to public health and safety including dog bites, traffic accidents, and zoonotic diseases.
• Contribute towards eradicating dog-mediated human rabies.
• Reduce nuisance caused by free-roaming dogs.
• Prevent harm to livestock and other animals.
• Prevent illegal trade and trafficking of dogs.

Roles and Responsibilities

Competent Authority

Leads and coordinates national DPM efforts, establishes governance, supports legislation, enforcement, funding, training, and communication initiatives.

Veterinary Services

Organize, implement, and supervise DPM programs in coordination with Competent Authorities.

Local Authorities

Responsible for local implementation and enforcement of dog ownership legislation.

Dog Owners and Breeders

Responsible for dog welfare and complying with regulations and recommendations.

Civil Society and Advisory Groups

Support program development, provide expertise, and represent stakeholder interests.

Regulatory Framework

Legislation is key to sustainable and effective DPM programs, ensuring animal welfare principles are respected. Regulations may cover:

• Owner obligations and responsible dog ownership.
• Animal welfare duties of authorities.
• Dog registration and identification systems.
• Licensing of breeders, sellers, shelters, and veterinarians.
• Regulation of veterinary medicinal products.
• Preventive measures against rabies and other zoonoses.
• Control of dog movement and trade.
• Waste management.

Developing and Evaluating DPM Programs

• Begin with assessment of local dog populations and community attitudes.
• Review regulatory frameworks and past DPM measures.
• Identify priority dog-related issues with stakeholder input.
• Establish baselines and monitoring methods for evaluation.
• Understand dog population dynamics and sources of free-roaming dogs.
• Use evidence-based methods for planning, monitoring, and adapting programs.
• Engage advisory groups and relevant authorities throughout the process.