The problem of stray animals has become one of the most pressing issues for large cities in recent years. Shymkent is also facing this situation. Stray dogs are often seen on the city streets, causing concern among residents. However, the city has now adopted a humane and civilized approach : starting in 2025, animals will be returned to the wild after being processed by the city's animal control service. This approach aims to simultaneously maintain public safety and protect the animals.

Every animal that passes through the capture service undergoes mandatory veterinary procedures:

1. Sterilization prevents uncontrolled reproduction of dogs and helps to gradually reduce their numbers.

2. Rabies vaccination protects people from potential diseases and reduces the risk of spreading dangerous infections.

3. Microchipping allows you to keep track of animals and, if necessary, trace their fate.

To help residents identify treated animals, special blue, green, or red earrings are attached to their ears. This signifies that the dog has passed the program, poses no danger, and can be safely kept in the city.

Previously, the practice involved the mass capture and destruction of dogs, which drew condemnation from society and animal rights organizations. Today, the priority is to reduce the number of stray animals through humane methods .

Similar programs are successfully operating in many countries. In Turkey, Romania, and Georgia, animals are returned to their natural habitats after sterilization and vaccination. Over the past few years, the number of dogs on the streets has naturally decreased, and the level of animal aggression has dropped significantly.

It's important to understand that the main reason for the emergence of homeless animals is the irresponsibility of the people themselves . Owners often fail to spay or neuter their pets, and the resulting puppies are abandoned on the streets. As a result, an entire population of stray dogs develops.

City residents are reminded:

• Pet owners are required to control their breeding.

• It is unacceptable to abandon puppies or adult dogs on the street – this is not only an act of cruelty, but also an administrative offense.

• It is forbidden to show aggression and cruelty towards homeless animals.

Thus, only through the joint efforts of the authorities and society can the situation be radically changed.

Local authorities and police actively support the initiative, conducting public awareness campaigns. The attitude toward animals has always been considered an indicator of a society's level of culture and humaneness .

Schools and colleges across the city offer special lessons on the importance of caring for animals and being kind to them. Volunteers and animal rights activists organize charity events, help shelters, and provide temporary shelter for animals.

Shymkent authorities have issued important clarifications to the public:

• If you see a dog with an earring on its ear on the street, don’t be afraid, it’s a safe animal.

• You should not throw stones at dogs or hurt them, as such actions provoke aggression.

• If you encounter an injured or weakened dog, you should report it to the city veterinary service.

Tolerance, understanding, and goodwill among residents will help make the city comfortable and safe for everyone.

The humane stray dog management program in Shymkent is an important step toward building a civilized and safe city. It combines animal rights protection with public safety.

With a responsible approach from the public and efficient work by city services, positive results can be expected in the coming years. The reduction in the number of stray dogs will occur gradually and without cruelty.

It is important to remember that a society that shows compassion to animals can truly be considered developed and humane .