The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH)‘s Terrestrial Animal Health Code provides a comprehensive framework for improving animal health, welfare, and veterinary public health worldwide. Chapter 7.7, specifically addressing dog population management (DPM), outlines key principles and considerations for developing effective programs.
The chapter begins by establishing guiding principles and objectives for DPM programs. It then defines the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of a robust regulatory framework. The code outlines three essential steps: program development, assessment and planning, and monitoring and evaluation.
Following these foundational elements, the code recommends a range of DPM measures, including dog registration, regulation of commercial breeding and sale, and catch-neuter-vaccinate-return (CNVR) programs. It also addresses special considerations such as humane capture and handling, dog housing, and euthanasia.
The WOAH code provides a comprehensive framework that can serve as a reference for almost all dog population management programs. Its guiding principles are particularly valuable when addressing novel issues or challenges faced by dog welfare organizations and advocates. However, it may be challenging for those new to DPM due to its legalistic style.
The Humane Dog Population Management Guide, developed by the International Companion Animal Management Coalition (ICAM), offers a more accessible and detailed guide based on the WOAH standards. This resource is particularly valuable for individuals setting up DPM programs for the first time.