Moves to Tackle Stray Dog Crisis

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain’s Northern Municipality is stepping up efforts to address the growing problem of stray dogs in residential areas and heritage sites. Plans for fines, public awareness campaigns and a new adoption programme are expected to launch as early as September.

The issue was discussed at a coordination meeting held at the Northern Municipality building, attended by municipal member Abdulla Mubarak Al Qobaisi alongside representatives from the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, the Agriculture Affairs agency, the Bahrain Cats and Pets Society and members of the Press.

Fine for Feeding

Officials highlighted that random public feeding is a key driver behind dogs repeatedly returning to the same neighbourhoods. Under existing public cleanliness rules, individuals who feed stray dogs or leave food waste in public spaces could face fines of up to BD300.

However, authorities stressed that awareness must come before enforcement, calling for a community programme to educate residents on the risks of unregulated feeding and proper ways to handle stray animals. Mr Al Qobaisi urged the media to support the effort through short public awareness videos, noting that public influence can be more powerful than legislation in changing behaviour.

Adoption Drive

A significant shift in policy is also on the horizon. While previous arrangements involved catching, sterilising and relocating dogs to industrial areas or shelters, the upcoming contract—expected to be awarded in September—will open adoption pathways both within Bahrain and internationally.

Officials also proposed designating licensed feeding zones coordinated with animal welfare groups, using dry food only to minimise littering.

Heritage Sites at Risk

The Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities flagged concerns over stray dogs entering archaeological sites including areas around Saar and Hamad Town, where gaps in fencing allow animals access. Officials confirmed Bahrain remains rabies-free, with strict import controls in place for pets.

Attendees agreed the crisis requires a unified response linking enforcement, welfare and heritage protection under a clearer coordination framework.