Mauritius: The Mauritius Society for Animal Welfare organized a sensitisation campaign to celebrate World Animal Day 2024. The event was organised, on 28 September 2024 with several animal rights stakeholders in attendance.
The aim of the event was to spread awareness regarding the treatment of animal among the community members. The officials have shared that the members of the community should understand that abusing animals in any form and shape should be discouraged.
The event was hosted under the patronage of the under the aegis of the Ministry of Agro Industry and Food Security at the Ebene Recreational Park. The main aim of the campaign was to raise awareness about the protection and welfare of animals in the community and to promote sterilisation.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Minister of Agro Industry and Food Security, Mahen Kumar Seeruttun, and the Director of the MSAW, Julien George. The officials have shared that it is the responsibility of the members of the community to make sure that
Minister Seeruttun delivered a statement to honor and commemorate Animal Day 2024. He emphasised the need to identify specific locations for dog shelters throughout the country.
He announced plans to recruit veterinarians from SADC and Madagascar to address the growing demand for animal care. Additionally, he urged young people to consider a career in veterinary medicine, highlighting the serious shortage of professionals in this field and the vital role they will play in enhancing animal welfare.
During the event, various services were offered, including free dog and cat adoption, free vaccinations for animals, and demonstrations of animal training techniques. Furthermore, the MSAW announced the launch of a mobile application survey designed to monitor the dog population in Mauritius and reduce the number of stray dogs. This survey aims to gather essential information while ensuring the welfare of animals.
An online pet management system was also introduced, allowing users to register their dogs and cats, input owner information, receive vaccination reminders, and track pets in case they go missing.