site.btaSofia Reports Record Low Population of Stray Dogs

Local authorities in Sofia report a record low number of stray dogs in the city and are expanding measures for their control and care, the Town Hall said the occasion of World Stray Animals Day, April 4.

According to the latest counts and expert estimates, the total population of stray dogs in the capital is between 1,500 and 2,000, which is a historic minimum for Sofia.

The municipality also noted that the number of newly admitted dogs in shelters is 13% lower compared with the same period last year. According to the administration, this is due to more efficient handling of reports and increased control by the teams of the municipal enterprise Ekoravnovesie.

At present, nearly 1,200 dogs are housed in the three municipal shelters, in Gorni Bogrov, Seslavtsi, and Slatina. The shelter in Gorni Bogrov has recorded its lowest number of accommodated animals since its capacity was expanded.

The Sofia Town Hall says that a key factor in reducing the population is its neutering policy. Over 1,000 neutering procedures were carried out last year. According to the municipality, this helps maintain a threshold of 70% neutered dogs, considered a scientifically proven method for long-term control of the stray animal population.

Plans are underway to expand medical services at the shelter in Gorni Bogrov by building a new outpatient clinic for examinations and treatment, equipped for rapid on-site diagnostics. Additional funding has also been secured for tests, medications, and veterinary medical supplies.

The construction of a new indoor shelter facility is also planned, with activities expected to begin by the end of the year.

The municipality also reported that the renovation project for the municipal veterinary clinic Vrabnitsa has been finalized, with construction and repair works expected to begin this year.

At the shelter in Gorni Bogrov, new energy-efficient lighting with photovoltaic LED lights has been installed. A total of 40 lighting units have been set up, which, according to the municipality, will improve safety and working conditions while reducing energy consumption.

The Sofia Municipality continues to encourage dog adoption as the main approach to reducing their stay in shelters, as well as promoting responsible pet ownership.