Population Estimation and Demographic Characteristics of Free-Roaming Dogs on Kasetsart University Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Thailand: Implications for Rabies Control

TL;DR

This study estimates the population and demographics of free-roaming dogs on a Thai university campus to inform rabies control strategies.

Contribution

A practical census method combining block counts and photographic recapture is proposed for estimating free-roaming dog populations.

Findings

The campus free-roaming dog population was estimated at 529, 577, and 531 in 2018, 2019, and 2021.

Unsterilized female dogs were the majority and their numbers significantly influenced local dog populations.

Evening surveys recorded more dog sightings than morning surveys.

Abstract

Free-roaming dogs are commonly seen in many communities, including at Kasetsart University Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Thailand. A major concern is that these dogs can spread zoonotic diseases, especially rabies, which is fatal to both animals and humans. A better understanding of the population size and characteristics of free-roaming dogs, as well as the factors influencing their numbers, is crucial for planning effective population control and rabies prevention programs. In this study, the campus was divided into 52 accessible blocks. A census of free-roaming dogs on the campus was conducted by directly counting individual dogs in all blocks. To estimate the actual population, multiple surveys were carried out in the same block, and all dogs were photographed to avoid double-counting. Factors influencing population size were also examined. The results showed that more dogs were observed in the evening than in the morning. Most dogs were unsterilized females, and their presence was associated with the total number of dogs in each area. This study provides a practical approach for estimating free-roaming dog populations and highlights the importance of sterilizing female dogs as part of effective rabies control efforts.

Free-roaming dogs (FRDs) pose significant public health and animal welfare challenges globally, particularly in developing nations, where they serve as major reservoirs for zoonotic diseases, especially rabies. Determining the population size of FRDs, their demographic characteristics, and the factors influencing population size is essential for effective dog population management, which constitutes a critical component of rabies control programs. This study aimed to estimate the size and describe the characteristics of the FRD population and evaluate temporal and spatial variations in FRD sightings on the Kasetsart University Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Thailand. Factors influencing population size were assessed using a negative binomial regression model. The campus area was divided into 52 accessible blocks for dog-counting purposes. In 2018 and 2019, each block was surveyed once annually for a comprehensive census. In 2021, each block was surveyed on six occasions, three in the morning and three in the evening, using a photographic recapture method. Dogs sighted were photographed, and their characteristics and spatial coordinates were recorded. The total population sizes of FRDs on campus were documented as 529, 577, and 531 in 2018, 2019, and 2021, respectively. Intact female dogs predominantly constituted the majority of the FRD population. Regression analysis indicated a significant association between the number of FRDs within a block and the number of intact adult female dogs. The percentage of dogs sighted per occasion was significantly higher during evening surveys compared to morning surveys. This study proposes a practical census approach that combines total block counts with photographic recapture to estimate the population of FRDs. The findings offer valuable insights for developing effective dog population management strategies and planning rabies vaccination campaigns.

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