By Canine Culture,

As the world gears up to celebrate International Dog Day on August 26th, SPANA (the Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad) has announced a groundbreaking initiative to address the welfare, health, and working conditions of a group of dogs often neglected: the working dogs of Malawi.

In Malawi, where over two-thirds of the population lives in extreme poverty, crime rates are high, making working dogs essential for the security of homes, businesses, and law enforcement operations. Breeds such as German Shepherds, Africanis, Boerboels, and Rottweilers play crucial roles in protecting properties and assisting police with tasks like narcotics and illegal wildlife detection. Despite their importance, these dogs often suffer from a lack of basic welfare needs.

“Malawi’s working dogs are a forgotten workforce,” said Linda Edwards, CEO of SPANA. “International Dog Day is a time when we celebrate the bond between humans and dogs, but it’s important to remember that not all dogs are companion animals. Many are essential workers who protect their communities but have slipped through the cracks of other animal welfare efforts. This project will ultimately support their welfare, highlight their vital work, and encourage companies to recognize the importance of good welfare standards.”

In partnership with the Lilongwe Society for the Protection and Care of Animals (LSPCA), SPANA is collaborating with security companies, handlers, and the owners of over 200 security dogs in Malawi. The initiative aims to raise awareness about the dogs’ basic welfare needs, which are often overlooked due to a lack of knowledge and resources.

“Through no fault of their own, many people in Malawi are unaware of the basic needs of working dogs, such as constant access to clean, fresh water, nutritious food, and good shelters so that they can rest well and seek relief from the baking sun,” Edwards explained.

One of the critical challenges facing Malawi’s working dogs is the scarcity and high cost of dog food, which often leads to severe nutritional deficiencies. Additionally, the dogs experience prolonged periods without mental stimulation or enrichment, which are vital for their well-being.

To address these issues, SPANA and LSPCA have introduced a stamp of approval system for security companies that meet strict animal welfare standards. This government-accredited certification, issued by Malawi’s Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development (DAHLD), will be renewed annually and is designed to encourage companies to adhere to established guidelines. The certification acknowledges companies that provide adequate living conditions, shelter, nutrition, and veterinary care for their dogs.

Moreover, SPANA and LSPCA are offering immediate veterinary care, including vaccinations, parasite treatments, health checks, and nutritional advice. Many of these dogs have never had access to such care, and the lack of veterinary supplies has heightened the risk of infectious diseases like kennel cough and parvovirus.

“These dogs are indispensable to their communities, and they deserve to be treated with dignity and care. This project is their lifeline,” Edwards emphasized.

If successful, SPANA plans to expand this initiative to other regions with similar needs, continuing its mission to support working animals worldwide. In 2023 alone, SPANA provided veterinary care to over 336,000 working animals and administered more than 529,000 treatments globally. By expanding its efforts in Malawi, the organization hopes to improve the lives of working dogs and create a sustainable model of animal welfare that can be replicated in other regions.

As International Dog Day approaches, SPANA is calling on the global community to support this vital project. 

“International Dog Day is about celebrating all dogs, including the working dogs who labour to keep communities safe. We’re asking dog lovers around the world to stand with us in supporting these forgotten workers. With the help of our donors and partners, we can improve the lives of these incredibly hardworking dogs,” says Edwards.

For more information about SPANA’s work in Malawi and how you can support this crucial project, please visit www.spana.org/dogs