(HK) Trap and kill does not work

[Guest guest]

South China Morning Post

 

2008-09-09

 

Trap and kill does not work

 

I am writing to add my voice to those correspondents who have asked the

government to consider an alternative method for dog control. As a

veterinary surgeon who has been working in Hong Kong for 17 years and as a

village resident who is troubled by witnessing dog packs, I feel I have a

good understanding of the problem. The present method of trap and kill

simply does not reduce the numbers long-term, irregardless of the

considerable suffering involved to both animal and human.

 

New animals will move in to occupy the gap and the part of the pack left

behind will continue to reproduce quickly and the numbers will soon be up

again at the level that the local food resources can support.

 

The excess puppies produced will die of starvation, disease, on the road, or

be trapped and killed.

 

Trapping, neutering and releasing the dogs back into their environment means

that niche is occupied by a stable, healthier, less aggressive pack that

does not produce large numbers of puppies. It also allows for the packs to

be vaccinated against rabies which could play a vital role in preventing the

spread of this frightening disease should it ever spread across the border.

 

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals wants trials of this

policy to see whether it could work in Hong Kong. Viable plans have been

discussed for years. Animal welfare groups and animal lovers want the method

to be used. Most district councils support it. However, the government is

slow to give the final approval.

 

I urge politicians and the government to consider this and grant approval as

soon as possible to achieve a significant improvement in animal welfare.

 

Katriona Bradley, Tai Wai