In a significant step towards addressing the issue of stray dogs in Erbil Province, Governor Omed Khoshnaw visited a state-of-the-art stray dog shelter in Lajana, located 15 kilometers from the city center, where he held a press conference to provide updates on the ongoing efforts.

Governor Khoshnaw revealed that since January 10, over 3,000 stray dogs have been systematically transferred to the 20-acre shelter, a project that has incurred a cost exceeding USD$344,000. The monthly upkeep of the facility requires about USD$7,600.

The primary objective of the program is to vaccinate stray dogs to prevent the spread of diseases resulting from dog attacks. The governor highlighted that the daily transfer of 80 dogs to the shelter has led to a noticeable decrease in dog attacks in the region.

The shelter, touted as the best in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, ensures that all resident dogs have access to food, drinking water, shade, and protection from the elements. Approximately four tons of food are provided daily, with local restaurants contributing to the cause by supplying additional food.

Governor Khoshnaw urged journalists to visit the shelter, take pictures of the facilities, and witness the improved conditions for the dogs. The transparency initiative aims to showcase the strides made in enhancing the well-being of stray dogs in the region.

Unofficial figures suggest that there are more than 21,000 stray dogs in Erbil Province, with over 300 reported cases of dog attacks in the past four months. The Daratu sub-district reportedly has the highest concentration of stray dogs.

The lack of a pedigree system makes it challenging to identify the ancestry of these dogs. However, they are believed to be primarily of Turkish Kangal stock, with potential influences from the Armenian Gampr and Kurdish Mastiff ('Pishdar') breeds, among other Caucasian canines. These breeds, known for their domestication as livestock guardians, are characterized by muscular builds and adaptability to harsh weather and mountainous conditions.

Governor Khoshnaw's initiative not only addresses a pressing issue in the region but also sets a standard for responsible animal welfare practices, positioning Erbil as a leader in stray dog management in the country.