ROME (ITALPRESS) – Following the circulation of unfounded accusations regarding alleged mistreatment of stray dogs in Morocco — including claims of culling and poisoning — the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in Rome has stated that such allegations are baseless. According to a statement from the embassy, these claims are not aimed at protecting animal welfare, but are being used to damage Morocco’s image, which remains a leading tourist destination for millions of visitors worldwide.
In this regard, the embassy firmly rejects any explicit or implicit suggestion that decisions or measures have been taken to authorize or tolerate the mistreatment of animals, particularly stray dogs. It also outlined details of specific health and judicial measures in place to ensure animal welfare.
Morocco, the statement continues, has long been committed to addressing the complex issue of stray dogs in an effective, sustainable, and ethical manner, taking into account both public health and animal welfare concerns. Actions taken are based on respect for the national legal framework, international commitments, cultural heritage, scientific progress, and international best practices in animal welfare.
Since 2019, the national strategy has been based on the TNR (trap-neuter-release) method, which involves: capturing stray dogs by trained municipal agents; sterilizing, vaccinating, identifying, and providing veterinary treatment; and returning the animals to their original habitat.
From 2023, implementation has accelerated with the opening of facilities to house captured animals, the creation of several inter-municipal shelters, and plans to build five more shelters in major Moroccan cities by the end of 2025. This programme will later extend to about ten additional cities to achieve nationwide coverage.
The initiative includes a state investment of approximately 24 million US dollars, supplemented by contributions from local authorities. Periodic awareness campaigns, especially in schools, are promoted by the Ministry of Health, the National Food Safety Office (ONSSA), and municipal hygiene offices.
On July 10, 2025, the Government Council adopted a bill on the protection of stray animals and the prevention of related risks, now under parliamentary review. The proposed law aims to balance the protection and necessary care of stray animals, respect for their right to life, and the safety of citizens.
Moroccan courts regularly issue rulings in cases involving both animal mistreatment and liability for dog attacks. Public authorities remain fully open to cooperation with all national and international stakeholders genuinely committed to promoting animal welfare, public health, and safety.
– Photo IPA Agency –
(ITALPRESS)
