TDT | Manama
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Residents of Block 714 in Salmabad are calling on the Ministry of Municipalities to address a growing problem with stray dogs, following several alarming incidents, including the fatal attack on a pet.
Mokhtar Chettout, a long-time resident of the area, described the situation as a “constant and grave danger” with packs of 8 to 20 dogs roaming the neighborhood. Chettout recounted a personal experience where he was attacked while jogging, narrowly escaping serious injury. He voiced concerns about children’s safety, questioning what might happen if a child were attacked.
Despite multiple attempts to alert authorities through various channels, Chettout stated that no action has been taken. He expressed hope that this report in The Daily Tribune would raise awareness and prompt urgent intervention. Residents fear that action will only be taken after a serious injury or death involving a child.
Efforts Already Made, Says Municipal Representative
Dr. Mohsen Salman Abdullah, the municipal representative for the fourth constituency of the Northern Governorate, which includes Salmabad, informed The Daily Tribune that three campaigns had already been conducted to address the stray dog issue in the area. He expressed a willingness to launch additional campaigns if necessary and speculated that the dogs might be migrating from Isa Town.
Root Causes Highlighted by Animal Advocate
Fathiya Al Bastaki, founder of Bahrain Stray Dogs Rescue, pointed to irresponsible dog breeders as a significant contributing factor. She alleged that some breeders force female dogs to reproduce up to three times a year, resulting in excess puppies that cannot be sold. Many of these dogs are abandoned when they become too costly to care for.
Al Bastaki also cited a lack of regulations requiring dog owners to register their pets through microchips or ID tags, making it nearly impossible to trace abandoned dogs back to their owners. She emphasized that addressing these breeding practices and implementing proper registration systems are essential for tackling the issue effectively.
“Stray dogs don’t generally attack adults, but they can pose a threat, particularly to children or vulnerable individuals. Families must supervise their children and avoid leaving them unattended,” Al Bastaki added.
Residents Appeal for Swift Action
The growing stray dog population has left residents feeling unsafe, with a heightened concern for children’s well-being. Their urgent appeal, combined with Al Bastaki’s insights into the root causes of the problem, underscores the need for decisive action from the Ministry of Municipalities.
Residents hope that their plea will prompt swift measures to ensure public safety and restore peace of mind in the community.
