The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals says its regrettable that it has taken a tragedy to bring to attention the growing issue of stray dogs.

In a statement, SPCA Fiji says while they sympathise with the family of little Amari Whippy, who was tragically attacked by dogs at her home in Nadi last week, any measures to curb the stray dog population must be done in a humane manner.

The SPCA is urging that there be a considered approach in consultation with veterinarians and animal welfare organizations, so that resources expended will have long term reach and impact.

The organization is further urging that poisoning not be considered as a form of animal control and are further cautioning the public against taking matters into their own hands.

The SPCA says a trapping programme will not address the underlying causes and the next breeding season will result in a new batch of dogs finding their way into neighborhoods.

The statement goes on to say that for several years, the SPCA along with other animal welfare organizations have continued to sound the alarm on the growing stray dog population.

SPCA is also reminding all citizens to take their responsibility as pet owners seriously and have male and female dogs (and cats) desexed.

Male dogs tend to roam and become aggressive during mating season.

This can be prevented by a simple operation conducted by a vet.

In response to the national call for input to the budget, SPCA this year submitted a proposal to the Government for a nationwide approach to addressing the stray dog (and cat) populations through a targeted public education campaign combined with desexing clinics made possible through volunteer veterinarians and adequate medical supplies.

The SPCA add that they have been working closely with the Suva City Council and the Ministry of Animal Health and Production on desexing and stray animal rehoming.

The SPCA further note that they will be monitoring the current trapping campaign and look forward to meeting with government and other partners in the private sector towards securing the much-needed resources for humane animal management in Fiji.