Spanish
Globally, it is estimated that there are more than 900 million dogs, according to the World Organisation for Animal Health. In the Dominican Republic, although there is no recent official national census, local organizations estimate that at least 2 million dogs live in the country, including domestic and stray dogs.
Dogs have accompanied humans for thousands of years. Since the first human settlements, their presence has been linked to hunting, protection, and companionship. Today, their importance goes beyond the functional. Their emotional and therapeutic value has been demonstrated in multiple studies. They are able to detect mood changes, provide emotional support to people with anxiety, depression or autism, and facilitate physical and emotional rehabilitation processes.
Among the most well-known and beloved breeds worldwide are the Labrador Retriever, the Golden Retriever, the German Shepherd, the French Bulldog, and the Pug. Each breed has its own characteristics, but all dogs, regardless of their lineage or whether they are mixed breeds, have the ability to provide unconditional love and companionship. In the Dominican Republic, it is common to see a large population of Creole or mixed-breed dogs, affectionately known as "street dogs" or "viralatas", many of them with stories of abandonment, but with a heart full of gratitude when given a second chance. The bond between humans and dogs is so strong that the loss of a pet can be compared to the grief for a close family member. It is not an exaggeration, but emotional recognition: dogs are part of the emotional structure of a home. Taking care of them is a form of gratitude and ethical responsibility. In this sense, various Dominican institutions work for animal protection and welfare. Among them, the Collado Foundation, the S.O.S. Animal Shelter, Doggie House, Independent Rescuers RD, and the Pets Breeding Control Foundation stand out. Furthermore, since 2012, Law 248-12 on Animal Protection and Responsible Ownership establishes a legal framework that seeks to prevent mistreatment and promote the welfare of animals. Taking care of a canine involves more than just feeding them. It requires time, patience, and commitment. It is essential to provide them with clean water, balanced food, and safe shelter. They need daily walks, mental stimulation, socialization with other animals and humans, as well as constant love. They must also be kept free of fleas and ticks, and receive vaccination and deworming periodically. A healthy pet should go to the vet at least once a year for a general checkup, vaccinations, and parasite control. In puppies, visits should be more frequent: every three weeks until their initial schedule is complete. In older adult dogs, a checkup every six months is recommended. Adopting, instead of buying, is one of the most responsible decisions one can make. Thousands wait in shelters or on the streets for a second chance. Adopting saves lives, and often the person who adopts gains the most. The love of a rescued dog is pure, grateful, and deeply loyal. World Dog Day is not just a date to share photos on social media. It is an opportunity to reflect on how we treat animals, to promote responsible pet ownership, and to support the organizations that fight day after day for those who have no voice.
