In response to the growing public concerns regarding poor welfare and handling of security dogs in Lilongwe City, the Lilongwe Society for the Protection and Care of Animals (LSPCA) has partnered with the Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad (SPANA) and the Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development (DAHLD) to implement a collaborative project.
The project aims to provide trainings for shelter managers and dog handlers from various companies and institutions in aspects of dog care, welfare, and handling, as well as providing regular health surveillance and veterinary care. Upon the project's completion at the end of this year, government-accredited stamps of approval will be awarded to companies adhering to the animal welfare standards outlined in the Malawi Animal Welfare Guidelines of 2019.
On January 31st, 2024, the LSPCA collaborated with the DAHLD to engage with security companies and institutions in Lilongwe to discuss the raised concerns on welfare and handling of security dogs. These concerns include poor shelter, nutrition, and health conditions observed at various places where security dogs are kept. They also include concerns that security dogs are stationed with guards or handlers in the sun for extended periods without water, food, and appropriate restraining materials (which has resulted in recent surges in fatal dog attacks on innocent humans). Among the stakeholders were the Lilongwe City Council, the Malawi Police Service and 20 security companies within Lilongwe City.
The security companies agreed to be part of the project and address the discussed welfare issues, including the overlooked animal welfare practices such as observing recommended maximum working hours, retirement age, and preventative veterinary care. In addition, the security companies agreed to work with the LSPCA and DAHLD to enhance the handling techniques of dog handlers by providing further training in dog handling and ensure the availability of proper restraining materials for dogs on duty, for public safety purposes.