Turks & Caicos Islands
Vandalism Halts TCI’s Programme to Trap Stray Dogs
By Turks & Caicos Government
May 20, 2014 - 4:05:25 PM

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

The Ministry of Environment and Human Affairs says it deeply regrets the suspension of the programme, which is designed to reduce the number of stray and feral dogs on the islands. The programme also aims to reduce 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 says it has found it difficult and expensive to replace and repair the traps, noting that in one week, 10 traps were deliberately destroyed and in the past year alone, another 17 were either stolen or damaged. Each trap costs TCIG $400.00.

The Ministry pointed out that in response to public requests, the Department of Agriculture has employed more humane and innovative ways to control strays. In addition to these special traps, TCIG is 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. Posters and bill boards have been mounted across the TCI to make the public aware of the issues relating to responsible pet ownership.

The Ministry notes that 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 Ministry warns that anyone caught vandalizing the traps will be prosecuted as these actions constitute a crime. All acts of vandalism will be reported to the police and if caught, perpetrators will be put before the courts.

Dr. Butler is also urging responsible and civic minded residents to report the acts of vandalism and the perpetrators to the Department of Agriculture and or the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force.

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

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