The Duhok Veterinary Directorate building. (Photo: 964media)
'Co-inhabitants of this planet'
Duhok Veterinary Directorate opposes stray dog culling plan
DUHOK — The Duhok Veterinary Directorate and the Kurdistan Organization for the Protection of Animal Rights have voiced opposition to any plans to cull stray dogs in the area.
On Monday, a meeting was held by the Kurdistan Islamic Religious Scholars Union in Duhok to support the elimination of stray dogs following reports of attacks on residents.
Sleman Tamar, president of the Kurdistan Animal Rights Organization, told 964media that the decision contradicts the Kurdistan Parliament’s 2022 law, which prohibits the killing of stray animals.
Tamar highlighted that collecting stray dogs and housing them in shelters or neutering them is a more scientific and humane solution, urging the government and relevant authorities to take action.
“These measures are only necessary if stray dogs pose a threat to people or become an obstacle to traffic, but this should be handled scientifically, not by shooting dogs on the streets,” he said.
Tamar also pointed out the increase in the stray dog population, estimating that Duhok Governorate alone has between 20,000 and 25,000 stray dogs.
Amin Amedi, spokesperson for the Duhok Veterinary Directorate, told 964mfedia, “We are against the killing of stray dogs and believe neutering efforts should be the focus for reducing their numbers.”
He added that efforts are underway to complete a shelter in Duhok to manage the stray dog population. “We must treat stray dogs with compassion. Injured animals should receive treatment, and food and water must be provided. Later, they can be neutered under the supervision of veterinarians,” Amedi stated.
Amedi also warned that killing stray dogs could lead to other ecological issues, such as an increase in the population of rodents, cats, and snakes, disrupting the natural balance of the environment.
“Animals are co-inhabitants of this planet and play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance,” he emphasized.