Zero Strays Miri educating public on how to control population of stray animals
MIRI: The rabies outbreak may cause fear among the public towards stray dogs and cats; however, Zero Strays Miri ( ZSM), a non-profit organisation in protecting the animals, wants to educate the public on how to control their population.
Since two years ago, ZSM has embarked on Trap, Neuter and Release ( TNR), an internationally agreed method that is used to humanely control and stabilise the population of stray dogs and cats.
ZSM president Sterwina Kho said TNR is the only humane solution to prevent increase in the number of strays from uncontrolled breeding.
“When they are neutered, they will not mate and reproduce more offspring in the area. Hence, it helps in stabilising the population,” added Kho.
Since embarking on TNR, Kho said the effort has gained acceptance in Miri City, with more Mirians starting to understand the importance of neutering.
“ZSM practises safe and humane method in rescuing these strays before bringing them to be neutered. After the stray dogs and cats are humanely trapped, they will be taken to a veterinarian clinic for a vet check, vaccinated and neutered. After the recovery, these animals will then be released back to their original place with their initial feeders caring for them,” she elaborated.
The TNR project, she said, provides a life- saving and effective solution for these innocent souls.
“There are many reasons to embrace TNR and ZSM aims at putting a stop to uncontrolled breeding that could help resolve many problems like rabies and other disease outbreaks.
“Stray dogs and cats exist because irresponsible owners abandon their unwanted pets on the streets. Thus, we highly encourage pet owners to neuter their pets to avoid uncontrolled breeding because dumping is not a humane solution,” she pointed out.
On average, she revealed, ZSM receives at least four reports of abandoned puppies or kittens in boxes on the streets per month.
“We want to reach out to as many pet owners, to educate them on the importance of neutering and spaying their own pets and to avoid dumping pets due to uncontrolled breeding,” she added.
Established in 2013, Zero Strays Miri relies solely on public donations to help the animals of Miri City. ZSM also welcomes those interested to be part of ZSM as volunteers.
ZSM can be contacted through Zero Strays Miri Facebook at https:// www. facebook. com/ ZeroStraysMiri/ or its website at www. zerostraysmiri.wixsite.com for more information.