In an effort to reduce the increasing number of stray animals, Fijians can have their dogs and cats de-sexed.

With a group of overseas veterinarians working with the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, people can visit the shelter at Walu Bay, Suva to get their pets checked and vaccinated.

USA Veterinarian Dr. Kimberley Khodakhah says it’s also important to keep companion animals healthy to ensure they don’t spread any diseases.

“We’re taking appointments, so if anyone is out there at any time – so if anyone is out there cats, dogs whether females or males we can desex them. Just catch them bring them over and we’re working pretty much every day till Friday afternoon here.”

The SPCA and the Suva City Council records hundreds of stray animals every year with 2018 recording more than 800.

Stray animals can pose a great threat to communities as they can carry various zoonotic diseases.

These include scabies, ringworm and parasites, and toxoplasmosis.