Pet owners are being encouraged to bring their dogs and cats to a free desexing clinic in Suva today, as part of efforts to improve animal welfare and reduce the growing number of stray animals in Fiji.
The community initiative is being organised by the Greater Muanikau Residents Association in partnership with the SPCA at the Nasova Mass Hall, opposite the Nasese shopping area.
Dog rescuer Adrienne Ali says the clinic aims to desex as many owned and stray dogs and cats as possible to help reduce the number of unwanted animals on the streets.
Insert: Ali on stray dogs and cats
She says Fiji is estimated to have more than 30,000 stray dogs, creating safety and animal welfare concerns in many communities.
Ali says desexing not only helps control the stray animal population but also improves the health and wellbeing of pets.
Ali is encouraging pet owners to take advantage of the low-cost desexing clinics held every month in different parts of the country, through the Ministry of Agriculture and the SPCA.
She says responsible pet ownership is key to reducing the number of stray animals and preventing neglect.
In addition to desexing, veterinarians and veterinary nurses are offering free health checks, deworming tablets, flea treatment and advice on caring for pets.
Ali is encouraging people to bring their pets or stray animals to the clinic and play their part in improving animal welfare across Fiji.