Ministry of Agriculture Vaccinates & Neuters Over 2,700 Stray Dogs

Egypt has vaccinated and neutered more than 2,700 stray dogs since the beginning of January as part of a nationwide effort to strengthen rabies control and improve public safety, according to the Ministry of Agriculture.

Figures released by the ministry show that the General Organization for Veterinary Services vaccinated 2,538 stray dogs and neutered 162 across several governorates.

The operations were carried out in coordination with local authorities and civil society organisations, in line with Law No. 29 of 2023, which regulates the humane management of stray animals.

The approach prioritises public health while adhering to animal welfare standards, relying on vaccination and sterilisation to curb zoonotic diseases such as rabies, alongside public awareness on safe and humane interaction with stray dogs.

Targeted field campaigns were also conducted in Luxor, where veterinary teams worked around key heritage sites including Luxor Temple, the Avenue of Sphinxes, and the area surrounding the Sidi Abu Al‑Haggag Mosque.

At these locations, 23 stray dogs were vaccinated to help maintain a safe environment for residents and visitors while protecting the visual and cultural integrity of internationally recognised heritage areas. The campaign sits within a broader national programme to manage Egypt’s stray dog population, officially estimated at between 10 and 11 million.

The programme adopts a capture, neuter, vaccinate and release model in coordination with governorates, with 12 plots of land allocated for the construction of animal shelters outside densely populated areas. The first phase covers Cairo, Giza, Beheira and Gharbiya, with additional governorates expected to follow using local funding.