Homeless animals – challenges of our time

The world is dominated by a humanistic paradigm regarding the attitude towards domestic and stray animals, based on ecological ethics. In Ukraine, a significant shift has occurred in recent years regarding stray animals. Society and legislation require a humane approach to solving the problem of stray animals, which has led to changes in the methods of their regulation. Stray animals are divided into two types by the origin of the population: first-generation stray animals – those that had owners, but ended up on the street; “heritarily” stray animals – born on the street, never had owners. The number of stray animals grows due to reproduction and new arrivals from human care. The key factors are: animal fertility, favorable conditions for reproduction, diseases, natural enemies, and availability of food resources. The primary methods of regulating the number of stray animals include: shooting animals on the spot; capture with return – a capture-sterilization-return program; non-returnable capture – removal and killing or placement in shelters; integrated methodology – a combination of several methods. The effectiveness of these methods depends on the conditions and size of the animal population. Studies show that homeless animal populations have self-regulating mechanisms. High capture pressure can lead to an increase in reproduction rates. Capturing stray dogs does not always lead to decreased numbers due to the migration of new individuals. Modern control technologies are based on biological models. The “capture-sterilization-return” program has proven its effectiveness in several countries. It is necessary to adhere to high standards of sterilization and vaccination, as well as to encourage the responsibility of animal owners. Adopting the Law of Ukraine “On the Protection of Animals from Cruelty” in 2006 improved the situation with stray animals. Programs that provide a humane approach are being implemented in cities in Ukraine. However, despite positive changes, there are still problems with stray animals, particularly the threat of the spread of rabies. The problem of stray animals in Ukraine requires a comprehensive approach that includes humane regulation methods, educational work, and the responsibility of animal owners. Only through joint efforts can significant results be achieved in this area.