LAWCS celebrates International Dog Day

A local pet advocacy group in Liberia has celebrated International Dog Day for the first time, highlighting dogs’ role in society.

Paynesville, Liberia, August 29, 2024 –The Liberia Animal Welfare and Conservation Society (LAWCS) has celebrated International Dog Day here with a focus on dogs’ role in society.

Speaking during the celebration attended by dog owners from various communities in Paynesville, the Program Manager of LAWCS, Paul Gobah, highlighted the role of dogs and the fight against cruelty in Liberia.
Manager Gobah stated that LAWCS has joined global efforts to honor the invaluable contributions dogs make to families and communities.

He disclosed that this was Liberia’s first time joining the rest of the world to celebrate International Dog Day, and this annual observance highlighted the unwavering loyalty and companionship that dogs offer while drawing attention to issues of animal welfare in the country.

Meanwhile, the Manager for Education and Advocacy at LAWCS, Mrs. Anna T. Fallah, said in Liberia, dogs serve multiple roles, from providing companionship and security to providing income and food.

Manager Fallah lamented that despite their significance, many dogs face significant challenges, including abandonment and inadequate feeding.

She frowns at the practice of consuming dogs, which, according to her, LAWCS is actively campaigning against.

She pointed out that LAWCS’s celebration of International Dog Day will not only focus on dogs’ positive impacts but also spotlight the suffering and cruelty these species of domestic animals endure from human beings.

Manager Fallah continues that the organization aims to raise awareness about the harsh realities faced by dogs, including being fed with meager leftovers and the cruelty of dog meat consumption.

“Through its campaign, LAWCS seeks to promote responsible pet ownership, advocate for humane treatment, and work towards a future where all animals are treated with respect and compassion,” She added.

She explained that by joining hands with other organizations worldwide, LAWCS hopes to amplify its message and drive change for the betterment of dogs in Liberia and beyond.

For his part, Samuel Davis, a resident of Pipeline Road in Paynesville, said it is unfortunate that some Liberians treat dogs as enemies in the society.
Mr. Davis said the government should do everything possible to protect dogs from harmful people.

He wants measures put in place to ensure that the welfare and protection of domestic animals like dogs are respected.

Dogs serve as security and companions in many homes. In the developed world, they are adequately cared for and treated with respect, unlike in most parts of Africa.

According to research, the Day is observed annually on August 26. This year’s celebration was held on Monday, 26 August. International Dog Day was founded in 2004 by pet and family lifestyle expert, animal rescue advocate, conservationist, dog trainer, and author Colleen Paige. She also set up other pet holidays, including National Kitten Day and even National Wildlife Day. In 2013, International Dog Day was even officially adopted into New York State Legislation. Editing by Jonathan Browne