https://apnews.com/article/morocco-stray-dogs-neuter-rabies-fifa-d8452e6aa0005e0cd71462ab7daf9bf5
In Morocco, the government has embraced a humane approach to managing its large stray dog population through the “Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate, and Return” (TNVR) program, first launched in 2019. Under this initiative, dogs - known locally as “Beldi” - are taken to facilities where they receive medical care, sterilization, and vaccinations before being released back into their communities with tags identifying them as safe.
The program, supported by $23 million in funding over five years, aims to balance public health and safety with the well-being of animals. Local officials are now working to expand TNVR centers to more than a dozen other cities. Although some dogs are deemed too ill or aggressive so have to be humanely euthanized, the majority are treated and released. According to veterinarians, this long term strategy is more effective and compassionate than mass culling, with over 200 treated dogs already returned to just the Rabat area alone.
As an animal advocacy organization, Whiskers, Paws and Love fully supports Morocco's TNVR strategy and encourages its expansion nationwide. We believe that humane, science based solutions like this are essential to promoting coexistence between communities and animals. While no program is perfect, TNVR represents a significant step forward in responsible animal care and public health. We urge continued investment, international support, and transparency to ensure this compassionate model becomes the norm - not just in Morocco, but globally instead.
