Project: Humane Communities: Integrated Street Dog Welfare, Rabies Prevention and Community Education Programme in Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, India

Problem

Kanyakumari District has a growing population of free-roaming dogs, inadequate sterilisation coverage, limited access to veterinary care, ongoing rabies risks, and insufficient public awareness regarding responsible dog care and animal welfare.

Assumption

If free-roaming dogs receive humane population management, vaccination and veterinary care, and if communities gain knowledge and skills regarding responsible animal stewardship, then both animal welfare and public health will improve sustainably.

Inputs

• Funding and technical support

• Veterinary professionals

• Community volunteers

• Educational materials

• Partnerships with local authorities and animal welfare stakeholders

Activities

• Sterilise 1,500 free-roaming dogs

• Vaccinate 2,500 dogs against rabies

• Provide treatment for 3,000 dogs

• Train 100 community volunteers

• Conduct school and community awareness programmes

• Establish village-level animal welfare support networks

Outputs

• Reduced uncontrolled breeding

• Increased vaccination coverage

• Improved animal health

• Increased community participation

• Enhanced public awareness of dog welfare

Short-Term Outcomes

• Reduced dog suffering

• Reduced rabies risk

• Improved community knowledge and attitudes

• Increased responsible behaviour towards dogs

Long-Term Outcomes

• Sustainable and humane dog population management

• Improved coexistence between people and dogs

• Stronger community ownership of animal welfare

• Reduced dog bite incidents and disease transmission

Impact

A healthier, safer and more compassionate community where dogs live free from avoidable suffering and residents actively support animal welfare through responsible and sustainable practices.