Scientific name: Canis lupus familiaris Family: Canidae Order: Carnivora Risk level: Very high Category: Crawling pests
? What is a stray dog
Stray dogs are a serious public-health problem in major cities and around industrial facilities. Packs attack people, compete for waste and attract houseflies and rodents. They are a major source of rabies in areas where the disease remains endemic.
Stray dog life cycle
Mammals usually reproduce once or twice a year, with 2–8 young per pregnancy, depending on the species.
Where stray dogs occur
They occur in urban and rural environments in Saudi Arabia, the Gulf, Egypt and the MENA region.
Damage and risks associated with stray dogs
Stray dogs are the leading source of human rabies transmission worldwide, accounting for 98% of deaths. They transmit salmonella, Yersinia and Helicobacter, and attract insects and rodents to facilities.
Signs of stray dogs
Signs include direct sightings, footprints, characteristic droppings and sounds, and damage to poultry or waste.
Where stray dogs are found
They occur around industrial facilities, landfills, abandoned areas and markets. They form packs with defined territories.
Stray dog control methods
Work with environmental and wildlife authorities. Manage attractants such as waste and poultry. Use protective fencing and live traps in accordance with regulations.
Stray dog control products
Follow local regulations; most of these species are protected or subject to regulated hunting. They may be killed only with a permit.
Food-facility control requirements
FSSC/BRCGS: stray animals around a facility represent a high risk. Recording sightings and having a reporting protocol are mandatory.
A fact about stray dogs
Stray dogs rapidly develop behavior that differs markedly from that of their original domestic ancestors. Ten-year studies have shown that urban stray dogs develop sharper senses and more complex social behavior in fewer than two generations.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Are stray dogs dangerous?
A: Their risk level is very high. Stray dogs are the leading source of human rabies transmission worldwide, accounting for 98% of deaths. Keep away and notify the relevant authorities.
Q: Who is responsible for removing stray animals?
A: Usually municipalities and animal-environment agencies. Do not try to remove them yourself; some species are legally protected.
