Companion Animals

Welfare of Street Animals in Latin America

Latin America has an estimated 75 million stray dogs; their welfare is affected by disease, vehicle injury, and management approaches ranging from TNR to mass culling.

Key Facts

Brazil has an estimated 30 million stray dogs — the world largest population
Rabies has been largely eliminated in Brazil through vaccination campaigns
Municipal dog culling programs have been replaced by TNR in many Brazilian cities
Street dogs form stable social groups and territories in urban environments
Cultural attitudes toward street dogs vary significantly between and within countries

Welfare Considerations

Latin American street dog welfare is improving through the expansion of TNR combined with vaccination programs. The success of Brazilian rabies elimination through vaccination demonstrates that public health and animal welfare goals are aligned rather than competing.

What You Can Do

Support WSPA and local organizations implementing TNR in Latin American cities
Donate to vaccination programs for street dogs in rabies-endemic regions
Advocate for culling bans and TNR mandates across Latin American municipalities
Raise awareness about the public health alignment of humane street dog management