STRAY DOGS IN ALBANIA – THERE IS NO NEED TO BE AFRAID OF THEM
Many people visiting the Albanian coast are surprised to see free-roaming dogs with coloured plastic tags attached to their ears. It may look unusual at first, but it is actually a positive sign.
Why Do Some Dogs Have Coloured Ear Tags?
The ear tag means that the dog has been through a veterinary programme. It has been caught, vaccinated against rabies, neutered and then returned to the area where it lives. This helps towns control the stray dog population while also monitoring the animals' health.
What Does the CNVR Programme Mean?
This approach is known as CNVR – Catch, Neuter, Vaccinate and Return. The programme helps manage the number of stray dogs in a controlled and humane way.
How Should You Behave Around Stray Dogs?
Most tagged dogs are accustomed to people and are generally calm. They often rest near beaches, promenades or restaurants, and local residents regularly feed them.
However, it is still important to treat them with respect. Avoid petting them unnecessarily, approaching them while they are eating or frightening them in any way.
What Should You Do If You Are Scratched or Bitten?
If you are scratched or bitten, clean and disinfect the wound and seek medical attention as a precaution. Medical professionals in tourist areas are generally familiar with such situations.
A Coloured Ear Tag Is a Positive Sign
A coloured ear tag is not something negative. On the contrary, it shows that the dog has received veterinary care and is part of a programme helping to manage the stray animal population in a more humane way.
How Can You Help Local Shelters?
Volunteers and small animal shelters also care for stray dogs in Albania, often relying entirely on support from people abroad. Many visitors travelling to Albania by car, including those from Czechia, bring bags of dry food or tins of dog food with them.
This is a great help to local shelters, as good-quality pet food is expensive in Albania and caring for the animals can be financially demanding.