Mauritius continues to grapple with a significant stray dog issue, with the problem persisting despite efforts from authorities and animal welfare organizations. Commonly referred to as “Maurichiens,” these dogs roam the streets, beaches, and public spaces, raising concerns about animal welfare and public safety. While the Mauritius Society for Animal Welfare (MSAW) has implemented a “Free Mass Sterilization Campaign” in collaboration with the Ministry of Agro-Industry and Food Security since 2015, the situation remains critical. This article explores the current status of stray dogs in Mauritius, the latest statistics, sterilization initiatives, legislative challenges, animal abuse concerns, and potential solutions for responsible adoption.
The number of stray dogs in Mauritius
Sterilization campaigns for street dogs in Mauritius
The MSAW’s sterilization program remains a core strategy for controlling the stray dog population. The organization has adopted a Catch-Neuter-Release (CNR) approach, in which captured stray dogs are sterilized and then released back into their environment. This method, successfully used in countries like the Netherlands and India, aims to curb the stray dog population sustainably.
According to the director, the MSAW has carried out over 18,500 dog sterilizations, including cats, around the island (September 2024).
A “voucher” system, available online, allow dog owners to access free sterilization services through private veterinarians at the organization’s expense.
However, challenges persist, with a significant number of vouchers remaining unused and a larger portion of the stray dog population left unsterilized.
To enhance the impact of sterilization efforts, the latest government plan proposes establishing regional branches to treat sick, mistreated, and abandoned animals. Feeding stations will also be installed to provide food to stray dogs in a controlled manner, reducing the environmental impact of random feeding by the public.
Challenges in capturing and releasing stray dogs
Dogs registration law
Effective management of stray dogs requires mandatory dog owner registration, which has not yet been enacted. Without it, distinguishing between stray and owned dogs remains impossible, making sterilization efforts inefficient. Furthermore, identifying owners is crucial for addressing abuse or abandonment.
The long-awaited dog registration law, which aims to hold owners accountable for their pets, remains unimplemented. Under this law, all dogs would need to be microchipped and registered in a national database to prevent abandonment and ensure better tracking.
MSAW had previously launched two applications, the Dog Population Survey and the Pet Management System, to facilitate canine identification.
Breeding and importation of pure breed
The latest government’s law project includes strict measures to regulate the breeding and importation of purebred dogs. Wild breeding farms, where females are exploited until exhaustion before being abandoned, are being criticized. The trade of purebred dogs should be subject to strict rules, including the implantation of microchips and the provision of a health booklet validated by the MSAW or an authorized veterinarian. For importation, the document proposes a ban or the introduction of discouraging taxes.
Animal abuse
New policies discussed on pet food
Adopting street dogs in Mauritius
Last year, we had the joy of adopting Snowie, a 2 months old street puppy found on Tamarin beach, and it has truly been a rewarding experience. She has brought so much happiness and love into our lives.
Adopting a stray dog is one of the most effective ways to combat the overpopulation crisis.
To promote adoption, discussions are ongoing regarding a Rs 10,000 tax deduction for individuals who adopt a dog. Several shelters and organizations actively facilitate the adoption of spayed, vaccinated, and microchipped stray dogs, including:
You may also fall in love with a dog on the street or on the beach. That is sometimes the case of tourists visiting Mauritius who make the news for having developed a fondness for street dogs and raised funds to bring them home. Organizations like Louspoir assist in repatriating street dogs to France, where they find new adoptive families.
Aspiring adopters are advised to ensure that a street dog is genuinely stray before taking it in. A veterinary check-up is essential, considering the potential challenges such as unknown medical history and diseases common among street dogs. Indie dogs are hardy and are more resistant to diseases than pedigrees; but they still need regular medical attention.
When considering adopting a puppy, it’s important to keep in mind that they should ideally not be separated from their mother until they reach 8 to 12 weeks of age. Additionally, if a dog exhibits aggressive behavior or is part of an established pack, it is likely accustomed to street life and may not thrive as a domesticated house pet.
Adopting a street dog requires patience and careful consideration. It’s crucial to assess the dog’s health, behavior, and socialization. Potential adopters are encouraged to interact regularly, gaining the trust of the dog before attempting to bring them home.
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2 Responses
Hello, do you know something about the dog situation now in 2025? I love dogs but i want to travel around the island in a bike and dogs can be a seriuos issue. Thanks.
Hi Luis, I’ll do an update on that article soon. There are still many stray dogs on the island, so I can understand your concern…