The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) has developed and published international standards since 1968. Its Terrestrial Code Online Access – WOAH and the Aquatic Animal Codes and Manuals – WOAH (previous editions) establish global benchmarks for animal health, welfare, and veterinary public health. These standards guide WOAH Members and partners in preventing, detecting, reporting, and controlling pathogenic agents in terrestrial animals, including zoonotic agents. Dog Population Management (DPM) [WOAH Terrestrial Animal Health Code, Chapter 7.7] refers to an approach that aims to improve the welfare of dogs, reduce problems they may present and create harmonious co-existence with people and their environment. DPM can support sustainable improvements to dog health and welfare, public health and safety, and the environment.
At the regional level, WOAH Regional Animal Welfare Strategy (RAWS) for Asia and the Pacific was established in 2008. RAWS for Asia and the Pacific provides a regional framework for implementing WOAH animal welfare standards and improving animal welfare through communication, education, regulation, and research and development. Additionally, the WOAH Collaborating Centre on Animal Welfare Science and Bioethical Analysis (the David Bayvel Consortium) offers technical support to regional Members.
Pacific Island countries and territories face unique challenges in managing dog populations due to dispersed geography, limited veterinary workforce, resource constraints, and the cultural significance of dogs in many communities. Free roaming and community owned dogs are common across the region, and issues such as inadequate access to veterinary services, limited regulatory frameworks, and varying levels of responsible ownership influence both animal welfare and public health outcome.
This webinar focuses on sharing experiences and best practices for managing free range dog populations. We will explore pathways to achieving the objectives of DPM, including, reducing the number of free-roaming dogs, promoting responsible dog ownership and reducing the risks to public health and safety.
The objectives of the webinar are to –
Brooke Rankmore, Animal Management in Rural & Remote Indigenous Communities
Kinley Dorji, National Veterinary Hospital Motithang, Thimphu, Bhutan
Bryan Gartrell, Rocks Vets Niue
Venue: Virtual (by invitation only)
Time: 11:00 am (Tokyo) / 2:00 pm (Fiji)
Date: 12 March 2026 (Thursday)
Concept note and agenda: HERE
