Three Things to Know
Italy has implemented a Community-Owned Dog (COD) strategy since 2001. To assess public perception and identify potential challenges, researchers conducted a study in Abruzzo five years after its implementation.
Nearly 60% of respondents were unaware of the community dog program, although half of the participants supported CODs as a strategy to control stray dog populations. Over three-quarters of respondents did not perceive CODs as a safety threat.
A strong majority (83%) emphasized the need to improve public education and community involvement regarding CODs. This is seen as crucial for the success of the COD program.
The Full Picture
While European nations, including Italy, have implemented measures to address stray dog populations, the effectiveness and public perception of these strategies remain understudied. In Italy, the concept of “Community-Owned Dogs” (CODs) was introduced in 2001 as an alternative approach to traditional methods like euthanasia or confinement in shelters.
CODs are unowned, non-aggressive dogs that are sterilized, microchipped, and returned to their original location. Local residents provide food and shelter without assuming full ownership. Six Italian regions, including Abruzzo, have adopted this strategy.
To assess the effectiveness and public perception of CODs in Abruzzo, a study, titled “Study on the Public Perception of ‘Community-Owned Dogs’ in the Abruzzo Region, Central Italy,” was conducted. The research focused on public awareness, community tolerance, and the perspectives of caretakers, particularly regarding concerns about noise, waste, and biting incidents. By understanding public attitudes and identifying potential challenges, policymakers and animal welfare organizations can work to improve the implementation and acceptance of COD programs.
Study Methods
To gauge public awareness and perceptions of Community-Owned Dogs (CODs), questionnaires were distributed to 10% of Abruzzo’s 305 municipalities between June 2018 and February 2019. Data was collected through both in-person interviews and online surveys.
A 28-question semi-structured questionnaire was divided into three sections:
- Demographics: Gathered information on gender, age, education level, place of residence, and pet ownership.
- COD Awareness: Explored familiarity with CODs, personal feelings towards them, and any involvement in their care.
- Public Health and Safety: Assessed perceptions of CODs as potential public health or safety risks, their impact on environmental hygiene and other animals, and opinions on controlling free-roaming dog populations.
Study Results
The study collected responses from 497 individuals. A significant portion of respondents (59%) were unaware of CODs or their regulation. Despite this, half of the respondents (50%) supported CODs as a strategy to control stray dog populations. Those opposed to CODs favored alternative solutions, including promoting adoption and responsible ownership (48%), birth control (41%), and building new kennels (6%).
Most respondents (77%) did not perceive CODs as a personal safety risk, although the response varied by residential areas. Pet owners were less likely to perceive CODs as a risk to public health, environmental hygiene, or the health and safety of other animals, while a small group (6% of respondents) actively cared for CODs, providing monthly or weekly support.
A strong majority (83%) emphasized the need for better public education and community involvement regarding CODs.
Conclusion
The study reveals a positive public perception of CODs as a humane and effective method for managing stray dog populations. However, the lack of awareness about COD regulations and their distinction from free-roaming dogs poses challenges.
To enhance the success of COD programs, it is crucial to increase public awareness, improve COD identification, foster community engagement, and address concerns about potential negative impacts. By addressing these key areas, authorities and community stakeholders can work together to promote the positive impact of COD programs and ensure their long-term sustainability.
Miscellaneous
Data From Study:
Dog Population Management > Case Studies > Commnity Dogs
Year of Publication:
2020
External Link:
Paolini A, Romagnoli S, Nardoia M, Conte A, Salini R, Podaliri Vulpiani M, Dalla Villa P. Study on the Public Perception of “Community-Owned Dogs” in the Abruzzo Region, Central Italy. Animals. 2020; 10(7):1227. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10071227