Population Management

As part of our animal care services, Animals Fiji's Population Management program includes the implementation of a comprehensive Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) programme. This humane and effective approach involves trapping, neutering, vaccinating, and releasing stray cats and dogs to control their populations.

By addressing the root of the issue, we aim to reduce the number of strays and improve their quality of life. Through TNR, we're creating a more sustainable and compassionate future for Fiji's animals while also minimizing potential health risks to humans.

Image: Free-roaming dogs in Tavakubu, Lautoka. The number of roaming dogs in high in this area, due to high human density. 

Population management is a continuous and collaborative effort that requires the commitment of many stakeholders, including animal welfare organisations, local councils, the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways, local businesses, and dedicated communities throughout Fiji. Achieving long-term, sustainable change depends on ongoing education and shared responsibility.

Alongside our veterinary and outreach services, Animals Fiji is leading population management research across Fiji and the wider Pacific. We believe it is essential to understand what human behaviours are contributing to overpopulation, as well as the barriers people may face in accessing services, such as affordable desexing. This research allows us to develop targeted education programs that address gaps in knowledge and support responsible animal care practices, particularly around issues such as community feeding and the unintended impact this can have on dog overpopulation.

It also helps us create outreach programs that support communities facing these barriers, while promoting the importance of preventative veterinary care, including desexing, flea and tick treatment, and other essential animal health services.

You can read more about our ongoing research on dog population management across Fiji HERE.

You can also view our recently published study based in Tavakubu, Lautoka, HERE.
 

Image: Local Lautoka community members attending our subsidised desexing clinic