The Dean of Veterinary Doctors, Ahmed Rajeb, warned on Tuesday, in a statement to Tunisie Numérique, about the increasing proliferation of stray dogs and cats, describing it as a serious threat to public safety and public health, and calling for urgent and sustainable solutions.
Rajeb explained that the main driver behind the surge in stray animals is the widespread accumulation of household waste in streets, combined with the failure of individuals and families to respect garbage disposal schedules. This situation creates a favorable environment for the reproduction of stray animals and insects, which act as disease vectors, transmitting infections between animals and from animals to humans.
Awareness and a healthy environment as key priorities
The veterinary dean stressed the need to raise public awareness about the dangers of these practices, noting that human health cannot be protected without ensuring animal health and a clean environment. According to him, a sanitary urban environment and healthy animal populations are essential to reducing health risks.
Rejection of culling in favor of a balanced approach
Rajeb firmly opposed the culling or hunting of stray animals, advocating instead for a balanced and humane approach that protects both humans and animals. Such an approach, he said, is crucial to preventing the many risks threatening residents’ safety, especially in light of growing complaints and repeated incidents involving stray dog attacks.
Vaccination efforts remain insufficient
He pointed out that while some stray dogs and cats have been vaccinated, thanks to the efforts of local residents and veterinary services, the problem persists. The presence of uncontrolled stray animals, capable of attacking domestic pets, continues to pose a serious risk.
A shared responsibility under the “One Health” approach
The Dean concluded by emphasizing that combating stray animals and related diseases is a shared responsibility requiring collective and coordinated action under the “One Health” approach. This strategy calls for cooperation at the local, regional, national, and global levels to protect animal health, human health, and environmental health alike.
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