A study of public preferences of trap-neuter-release (TNR) and trap-euthanasia (TE) programmes of free roaming dogs in Penang

The presence of uncontrolled dogs is generally recognised as a significant problem for humans and animals. Trapneuter-release (TNR) is a dog population management (DPM) concept adopted worldwide for reducing free-roaming dog populations (FRD). Trap-euthanasia (TE) is another concept in which FRDs are humanely trapped and then euthanised. This survey was conducted to determine public preferences between TNR or TE in managing the FRDs in Penang. Findings revealed that the public preferred humane methods of FRD population control such as trapping and taking to a shelter, adopting, spayingneutering and TNR rather than TE. At the time of the study, TNR was being practised in Penang. The results indicated that 55% of the public did not favour it and 43% did not believe in its effectiveness to manage the FRD issue. 70% of the public interviewed disagreed with TE although aware that FRDs are unwanted and a nuisance at times. In general, the results showed public concern towards FRDs and encouraged the authorities to seek out improved methods of population and FRD control which is humane and acceptable to society