HIBAPRESS – Agadir
The services of the Agadir Souss-Massa Animal Protection Center have officially started, in a pioneering step aimed at reducing the proliferation of stray animals and promoting a culture of animal welfare within the urban area of Greater Agadir.
This model project extends over an area of approximately 3941 square meters, with a financial cost estimated at 26 million dirhams, to constitute a qualitative leap in the way of dealing with stray dogs and cats, by adopting a humane and sustainable approach that is based on the principles of public health and environmental protection. The center relies on the "TNR" methodology (Catch – Neuter – Return), which is internationally recognized, and which aims to control the numbers of stray animals without harming them, by sterilizing and vaccinating them before returning them to their natural environment. The center includes integrated facilities that include reception areas, food storage warehouses, and wings dedicated to bathing, cleaning and veterinary examination, in addition to an operating room and a special department to accommodate animals with a capacity exceeding 4,000 dogs and about 500 cats. A small wing has also been allocated to receive abandoned donkeys and mules, despite the rarity of these cases. The center is expected to provide its services to several local communities, including Agadir, Inezgane, Ait Melloul, Tamassit, Drarga, Taghazout and Aourir, by providing veterinary services that include vaccination, sterilization, and treatment, before releasing the animals into their natural environment after ensuring their safety. It is expected that this project will constitute a qualitative addition to the environmental and veterinary infrastructure in the region, and a support to enhance collective awareness of the importance of humane and responsible treatment of animals in public spaces.
