Muscat: As part of its continuous efforts to foster a safe and sustainable environment while promoting public health, Muscat Municipality has unveiled ‘Rifq,’ a new initiative dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of stray and abandoned animals. This initiative marks a pioneering effort in the Sultanate of Oman.
The launch of Rifq underscores Muscat Municipality’s dedication to adopting international best practices in animal welfare, while also addressing the adverse effects that stray animals can have on both the environment and society.
The Rifq service will offer extensive care for stray and abandoned animals through a series of integrated programs that encompass capture, sterilization, rehabilitation, and healthcare services. Initially, the focus will be on dogs, with plans to expand the service to include cats and other animals in the future.
A specialized center will also implement community awareness initiatives aimed at educational and community organizations, highlighting the significance of animal welfare. Furthermore, the program will work to curb the spread of zoonotic diseases and maintain ecological balance within the Muscat Governorate.
In remarks regarding the launch of this new service, His Excellency Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Hamidi, Chairman of Muscat Municipality, stated: “The challenge of stray and abandoned animals is a global issue, not merely a local one. It presents risks to public safety, concerns the community, impacts the city’s aesthetics, and can lead to traffic incidents. Additionally, these situations pose threats to public health due to the potential for infectious disease transmission. Consequently, Muscat Municipality is dedicated to identifying effective solutions and implementing necessary measures to alleviate this issue. The introduction of the Rifq service is a crucial advancement in addressing this challenge, fostering sustainability, preserving ecological balance, and enhancing community awareness regarding the importance of animal welfare.”
The Rifq service is dedicated to promoting environmental equilibrium by implementing the latest global standards in the management of stray animals through a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) initiative. This program emphasizes the capture, sterilization, and reintroduction of animals into their natural habitats, thereby aiding in sustainable population management. Furthermore, Rifq will offer extensive medical services, including routine examinations, treatments, and vaccinations, while also focusing on the training and certification of animal care professionals. The initiative will enhance collaborations with both local and international organizations engaged in this sector.
Muscat Municipality is steadfast in its commitment to reducing the adverse effects of issues that threaten the community, such as the proliferation of stray and abandoned animals. By employing innovative strategies like the Rifq service, the municipality seeks to provide sustainable and effective solutions through high-quality programs that adhere to international standards in animal care and management.
