Vandalism Halts TCIG’s Programme to Trap Stray Dogs

The Department of Agriculture has suspended the trapping of stray dogs due to the consistent, theft and deliberate destruction of the equipment used to humanely trap the animals.

The Ministry of Environment and Human Affairs says that that it deeply regrets the suspension of the programme which is designed to reduce the number of stray and feral dogs on the islands thereby reducing the risk to life and property as a result of accidents or public health issues resulting from disease or bites.

Chief Veterinarian, Dr. Mark Butler noted: “Vandalism has rendered all of our traps completely inoperable and prevent the continued removal of stray dogs from our communities. It will also curtail the gains we have made to reduce the stray dog population especially in Providenciales where the vandalism is most prevalent.”

The Ministry has found it difficult and expensive to replace and repair the traps. In one week 10 traps were deliberately destroyed; and in the past year alone, another 17 were either stolen or damaged. Each trap costs $400.00.

In addition to trapping, the Department of Agriculture has in recent months, responded to the appeals from citizens to find more humane and innovative ways to control strays by collaborating with animal welfare groups to hold spay and neuter clinics and through the mounting of a public awareness campaign to educate the public on acceptable pet ownership and care.

The Ministry advises individuals who are engaging in the destruction of government property that their actions constitute a crime. All acts of vandalism will be reported and if caught, perpetrators will be put before the courts.

It is unforgiveable that the very residents who complain about stray dogs are the culprits who destroy the government’s property so willing and with disregard for the possible impacts strays can have on public health and the country’s tourism product. 

The Department urges all responsible and civic minded residents to report these acts of vandalism and those who are responsible to the Department of Agriculture and or the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force.

The Department also takes this opportunity to remind residents to become responsible animal owners by ensuring that their dogs are spay or neutered, licensed and kept on their property.