Wakayama, Jul 22, 2024 (News On Japan) - Saikazaki, a picturesque port town in Wakayama, often likened to Italy's Amalfi Coast, is experiencing an increasing problem with stray dogs, causing concern among local residents.
Located in the Nishinobu district of Wakayama City, Saikazaki is known for its dense housing and scenic views, earning it the nickname "Japan's Amalfi." However, the town is now facing a significant issue with numerous stray dogs roaming the area. Residents report feeling unsafe and are concerned about the potential for sudden attacks.
"The number of dogs is overwhelming and frightening," said a local resident. "We worry about the safety of our children playing outside. We need some measures to be taken."
Reports indicate that at night, dozens of stray dogs, ranging in color from black to white, can be seen in the town. Despite the proximity of humans, these dogs show little fear. They have been observed walking around cars and houses, even forming packs at times. Some residents have seen these dogs for at least a decade, estimating the current population at around 40 to 50.
While there have been no reports of injuries so far, the presence of these dogs has led to various nuisances. Stray dogs have been scavenging garbage, scattering trash, and defecating on residential properties. Measures like enclosing garbage areas with wooden boards have proven only partially effective.
Every evening, a peculiar phenomenon occurs: as soon as a local broadcast begins, the dogs start howling loudly, creating a cacophony that echoes throughout the area. This howling can continue for over a minute, sometimes extending into the night, disturbing the residents' sleep.
At 8 p.m., when most people are indoors, larger packs of dogs become more visible. The town's few streetlights cast shadows over the packs, making them difficult to avoid. Some residents have narrowly avoided car accidents due to dogs sitting in the middle of dark roads. When approached, the dogs' eyes reflect the light, and they bark fiercely, indicating their territorial nature.
According to local officials, these stray dogs are believed to be descendants of abandoned pets. The town's steep cliffs and secluded areas provide ideal habitats for the dogs, making them difficult to capture.
Wakayama City is not ignoring the problem. The city conducts almost daily patrols to capture and protect the stray dogs. Patrols are done on foot due to the dogs' sensitivity to car engines, which causes them to flee.
Despite these efforts, capturing the dogs remains a challenge. On a recent patrol, officers spotted a white dog but it quickly disappeared upon seeing them. Most of the dogs have become adept at avoiding capture, retreating to inaccessible areas.
The city has set up traps, but their strong sense of caution means only about three to four dogs are captured each month. An animal welfare expert emphasized the importance of controlling the stray dog population to prevent the spread of diseases like rabies.
Unlike stray cats, which can be managed through TNR (trap-neuter-return) programs, stray dogs are subject to stricter laws, requiring them to be housed by someone permanently.
On June 23, a pet adoption event was held in Wakayama City to find new homes for stray dogs and cats. While one puppy was adopted, older dogs remain difficult to place due to their wariness of humans. The city holds these events twice a month, but so far this fiscal year, only one adult dog has been adopted, compared to six puppies.
"We need people to take responsibility when adopting and commit to caring for these animals for their entire lives," said an official. "The current stray dog problem stems from human negligence."
As the stray dog population continues to grow, finding effective solutions to reduce their numbers and prevent potential injuries remains a critical concern for Wakayama City.
Source: MBS
