A One Health Approach Addressing Dog Overpopulation in Northern Canadian Communities

Abstract

Dog overpopulation in northern Canadian communities is a major health concern affecting humans, non-human animals, and the environment. Issues include aggression between dogs, contamination of soil and water systems, and a heightened risk of injury or zoonotic disease spread (Boissonneault & Epp, 2018; Brook et al., 2010). These One Health concerns are worsened by barriers in northern Canadian communities including isolation from veterinary or medical services, high cost, and potential judgement over the treatment of companion animals (CBC News, 2018). Several grassroots organizations across Canada have developed initiatives to address aspects of the dog overpopulation problem. Despite these efforts, there are very few sustainable, long-term interventions targeting isolated northern Canadian communities such as Inuvik, Northwest Territories. The proposed initiative therefore aims to fill this gap, reducing the dog overpopulation problem over time by partnering with organizations to provide free-roaming or stray dogs with a chemical contraceptive. It also aims to raise awareness across Canada and draw in donations to fund these procedures using the “Sponsor-A-Dog” approach. This may reduce the effects of dog overpopulation on humans, non-human animals, and the environment, with potential for expansion to other northern communities or canine-related health concerns.