Some Observations on Dog Welfare in The Bahamas

This article uses data from several sources to outline dog welfare and to identify areas in which it could be improved. The data include 253 dog licence records, 11 observations from free-roaming dogs, and two convenience samples (of 411 people in total). Dog age is used as an indicator of welfare. The current care given results in low average dog ages (three years). The actions of owners allow many animals to roam and so mate unchecked, and this exacerbates the nuisance of free-roaming dogs and diminishes the welfare of society. Three areas are identified which would enhance the welfare of dogs and society: keeping dogs inside the house, not in the yard; sterilizing dogs; and taking dogs to the veterinarian at least "when necessary".