It is starting all over again.

Stray dog numbers, roaming the streets and suburbs of the Suva City, are increasing.

And the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) believes the problem is a human one rather than a canine one.

SPCA chairperson Seema Deo said stray dog numbers rose because pet owners refused to desex their dogs.

“The stray population is caused by humans refusing to desex their pets and letting them roam on the streets. SPCA continues to insist that pet owners desex male and female dogs and cats to prevent breeding,” Ms Deo said.

“Dogs do become aggressive during mating season but their aggression is toward each other as they compete for the attention of the female. Aggression towards humans occurs when the dog has been mistreated and has become fearful.”

Ms Deo said this issue has been discussed several times and even specialists agree that trapping stray dogs has not proven successful.

“A trapping programme will not address the underlying causes and the next breeding season will result in a new batch of dogs finding their way into neighbourhoods,” she said.

“We remind all citizens to take your responsibility as pet owners seriously. Have your male and female dogs (and cats) desexed.

“Male dogs tend to roam and become aggressive during mating season. This is prevented by a simple operation conducted by a vet.”

According to Suva residents, numbers are soaring again, although no reports of attacks have been received.

Edited by Percy Kean

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