Steven, a Papillon breed dog, was found lost, alone, and dirty behind Shop N Save in Namaka, Nadi. Extremely friendly and just looking for someone to help him, a kind member of the public picked him up and brought him to the Animals Fiji Nadi Clinic. During his check-up with one of the veterinarians, it was determined that he is approximately ten years old. He was emaciated, had a heart murmur likely congenital, suffered from general skin issues likely a fungal infection, and he was not desexed. We named him Steven.
While our vibrant Fiji culture and stunning landscapes often steal the spotlight, a different story unfolds every day - that of the abused street dogs fighting for survival. These dogs, often overlooked and disregarded, endure unimaginable hardships as they navigate a life filled with neglect, abuse, and uncertainty.
Abandoned Dogs in Fiji
Imagine a puppy, Steven, most likely purchased from a dog seller. He lived a happy life growing up in a home with his human family, receiving two meals a day and lots of love, care and affection from all the family members.
However, Steven’s parents got a new job or relocated for some reason or another and moved from their house, but instead of bringing him with them, they left him outside the gate to fend for himself.
Steven spent weeks waiting for the family to come home, confused about where they went, why they had not come back for him, and he was hungry. His fur started to matt, ticks and fleas began to infest him, and his eyes filled with tears.
This dog, once someone's beloved pet, now found himself alone and vulnerable, struggling to find food and shelter amidst the harsh realities of street life. Abused street dogs in Fiji face countless challenges daily. They are subjected to physical violence, starvation, and disease, with no respite in sight.
Many of these dogs fall prey to the harsh conditions of street life, succumbing to illnesses and injuries that go untreated. Their existence is a constant battle for survival, where every day brings new obstacles and dangers.
Despite the hardships they face, these dogs exhibit a remarkable resilience that is nothing short of inspiring. They form bonds with other street dogs, creating makeshift families that provide comfort and support in times of need.
They learn to scavenge for food in garbage bins and beg for scraps from kind-hearted passersby, all in an effort to stay alive another day. But amidst the struggles and hardships, there are glimmers of hope for these abused street dogs.
Example of dog outside of gate
How Adoption Changes Lives
Organizations and individuals dedicated to animal welfare in Fiji work tirelessly to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome these dogs, offering them a second chance at life. Through spaying and neutering programs (TNR), medical care, and adoption initiatives, these organizations strive to improve the lives of these vulnerable animals and create a more compassionate society.
Steven was lucky enough to find his way to Animals Fiji thanks to a member of the public, but our shelter is not limitless. There are only so many stray and lost dogs, puppies, cats, and kittens shelters can accommodate with their limited space and resources.
Steven after being rescued
There are dozens of animals, like Steven, looking for forever homes at the Animals Fiji shelter, and others around the country. Adopt from a shelter so we can make room and make space for others. Steven was lucky that after time in shelter and proper medical treatment, the family that found Steven desperate alone on the street have decided to adopt him.
As we reflect on the life of an abused street dog in Fiji, let us remember the power of kindness and the transformative impact it can have on the lives of those who need it most. May we strive to be a voice for the voiceless, a beacon of hope for those in need, and a source of love and compassion for all living beings, no matter their circumstances.
Animals Fiji is dedicated to animal welfare throughout Fiji, with clinics in Savusavu, Labasa, Nadi, and Lautoka, along with outreach programs in various regions. To support their mission or learn more about their services, contact our Northern Clinics on (+679) 998 6253 or Western Clinics on (+679) 993 6647. You can also visit their website at www.animalsfiji.org.
Steven arriving at Animals Fiji
What Can You Do to Help Street Dogs and Cats?
- Don’t harm them - help them, don’t hurt them.
- Don’t buy from dog sellers (people selling pets online) – adopt from shelters.
- Desex your pet – or any animal you are feeding – to avoid unwanted litters.
- Sponsor Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) programs in your community.
- Be a responsible pet owner.
What Can You Do if You Find a Stray Dog or Cat?
- Feed it and then help arrange for the animal to be desexed as soon as possible.
- Adopt the animal and have it desexed.
- Call an animal shelter to see if they have space.
- Find family or friends who may want to adopt.
Solutions to Addressing the Overpopulation of Stray Dogs and Cats in Fiji
- Adopt from animal shelters and don’t buy from dog sellers.
- Donate to organizations, like Animals Fiji, that provide desexing programs.
- Contact Animals Fiji to arrange outreach desexing programs in your area.
- Educate family, friends, and neighbors about the importance and benefits of desexing animals.
- Don’t dump or abandon animals on the street or beach; bring them to animal shelters for help and advice.