Dog being petted in Kenya - World Animal Protection

Stray dogs in Morocco face cruelty ahead of FIFA World Cup

News

By

Thousands of stray dogs and cats in Morocco face cruel killings before the FIFA World Cup. Discover the humane alternative and how you can help.

In Morocco, thousands of stray dogs and cats are being persecuted and put down in the run up to the FIFA World Cup. Many of them are healthy and vaccinated.

Images going around show unnecessary cruelty toward animals that in many cases were already healthy, sterilised and vaccinated.

As part of the ICAM coalition, we are speaking out against these killings and joins the call by citizens and local activists demanding respect and humane solutions.

What is happening with dogs and cats in Morocco?

Local authorities have resumed mass culling of stray dogs and cats, ignoring humane alternatives.

This action goes against the 2019 convention signed by the Moroccan government itself, where the CNVR method (Capture, Neuter, Vaccinate and Return) was established to replace slaughter.

In cities such as Tangier, residents have taken to the streets to denounce this cruelty and demand change.

CNVR the humane and effective alternative

Humane management of canine populations exists and works
The CNVR method (Capture Neuter Vaccinate Return) :

  • Reduces the number of street dogs in a sustainable way
  • Prevents diseases like rabies protecting people too
  • Promotes peaceful coexistence between communities and animals

International coalitions like ICAM are ready to support Moroccan authorities in the implementation of this approach.

 

Two elephants embrace each other playfully with their trunks

You can make a difference for vulnerable animals

Donate now

When you make a donation, you’ll join a passionate group of supporters who are determined to change the world for animals. We're fighting animal cruelty wherever we find it — are you with us?

Click to donate

FIFA under international spotlight

With the World Cup on the horizon, FIFA and the Moroccan government face worldwide scrutiny.

The world’s most popular sport cannot be stained with animal cruelty.

We call on FIFA to join the international demand and ask Moroccan authorities to stop the cullings and apply humane solutions like CNVR.

How you can help

You can make a difference too.

Sign the petition of our allies in IAWPC to call for an end to the killing of dogs in Morocco.

Every signature increases pressure on the Moroccan government and on FIFA to act now.

Sign Up Now

By submitting this form, I agree to receive further communications from World Animal Protection and understand I can opt out at any time. For information on how we use your details, and how we keep your details safe, please read our privacy policy.

Frequently asked questions

Why are dogs being killed in Morocco?

Some authorities claim they are controlling the canine population ahead of the World Cup but this practice is cruel and ineffective.

What does CNVR mean for stray dogs?

It is a humane method consisting of Capture, Neuter, Vaccinate and Return of animals to their territory. It is the alternative endorsed by science and by Morocco’s 2019 convention.

How can I help dogs in Morocco?

By signing the IAWPC petition and sharing this information.

Dogs in Morocco deserve better than cruelty.

Together with our allies we continue pressing authorities to fulfil their commitments and adopt humane solutions.

At World Animal Protection we believe in a world where animals live free from cruelty and suffering. Forever.

Related content

Animals in Communities

Helping governments to manage dog populations humanely and to vaccinate against rabies, instead of culling animals - especially dogs.

Animal Sentience

At World Animal Protection sentience is at the heart of everything we do, click to find out more.

Take action

Fired up and ready to take action? Support our current campaigns to create a world where animal suffering is never acceptable.

More About

Latest news