Assessing the Impact of Feeding Stray Dogs on Stray Dog-Related Issues: A Community-Based Study in Songkhla, Thailand

Abstract

Objective: Increasing stray dog populations have transformed stray dog issues from a third-world problem to a global public health priority. This study aimed to determine factors related to feeding stray dogs and other factors that can impact stray dog-related issues. Material and Methods: This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Songkhla, Thailand, from the 4th to the 29th of January 2021. Data was collected via phone interviews. Logistic regression was performed to measure the association between the independent variables and problems related to stray dogs. Results: Among 168 participants, 137 (81.5%) reported having experienced a negative impact in connection with problems caused by stray dogs. The most common problem was garbage scavenging (62.5%), which predominantly occurred between 18:00 and midnight. Feeding stray dogs was significantly associated with stray dog-related problems (odds ratio [OR]=3.94 with a 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.26-17.41). Conclusion: Providing food to stray dogs causes problems and is also prohibited by law. It is important for media, community leaders, and other influential groups to create awareness and foster cooperation among communities to address this issue.