TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of Agriculture (MOA, 農業部) on Monday (Jan. 20) released a report estimating Taiwan's stray dog population at 141,584 for 2024, marking an 11.34% decrease from 2022. Officials attribute this decline to effective measures implemented since 2017, including a "zero euthanasia" policy at public animal shelters and widespread dog sterilization efforts.
The survey indicates that the number of stray dogs has returned to levels similar to 2018, ending a gradual increase observed since then. MOA highlighted the importance of pet registration, breeding management, and rabies vaccinations to prevent household dogs from becoming strays. Local governments have been urged to promote intensive sterilization programs to maintain this downward trend.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC, 交通部) reported a troubling rise in traffic accidents involving animals in 2023, resulting in 11 fatalities and 2,948 injuries, the highest in seven years, with stray dogs being the leading cause. MOA conducted the 2024 survey following the World Health Organization's (WHO) Guidelines for Dog Population Management, sampling 739 villages, an increase of 94 from 2022.
As Taiwan continues to address the issue of stray dogs, MOA's initiatives show promise in reducing the population. However, the impact on traffic safety remains a critical concern, necessitating ongoing efforts to ensure the well-being of animals and the public.