Stray Dog Crisis in Safawi, Jordan: Calls for Oversight on Donations
··2 min read
On October 15, 2023, a television program aired on Ruya TV revealed the increasing problem of stray dogs in the Safawi area of Mafraq, Jordan. The program raised questions about the responsibility of local authorities in managing the stray dog population and the oversight of donations for their care.
The program discussed the current situation of stray dogs in Safawi, questioning the progress of announced measures by authorities to control, sterilize, and feed the dogs. It also highlighted the need to define responsibilities between local authorities, government agencies, and community initiatives.
The program featured a veterinarian, Dr. Ra'id Al-Gharayeb, who noted a recent decrease in the stray dog population, attributing this to a reduction in food availability. He warned of potential health risks associated with the concentration of a large number of stray dogs in confined spaces, which could increase the spread of diseases.
The spokesman for the Safawi municipality, Faisal Al-Safyan, stated that the stray dogs had been gathering near a water well about five kilometers from the town for the past six years. He denied that the dogs had been brought in from other areas, asserting that the municipality is working on steps to address the issue.
Al-Safyan clarified that the municipality, in collaboration with the local administration and official institutions, has implemented measures including training some of its employees to handle the stray dogs.
The program also touched on the need for better regulation and transparency in the collection and use of donations intended for the care of stray animals.
CONTEXT: The issue of stray dogs in Jordan is not new, but the increasing concentration of these animals in specific areas like Safawi poses significant challenges. The lack of effective management and oversight on donations can exacerbate the problem, leading to potential health risks for both the animals and the local community. Addressing these issues requires coordinated efforts from local authorities, government agencies, and community initiatives to ensure the welfare of the animals and the safety of the public.
