Animal Welfare Through Prevention

At The Dziko Project, we believe every street dog and cat deserves a life free from suffering. In Sri Lanka, countless animals are born into hardship, facing hunger, disease, and neglect. Through our crucial sterilisation program, we’re breaking the cycle—one kind, compassionate intervention at a time. We also stand beside vulnerable communities, offering vital veterinary care and support to those who need it most.

Together, we’re creating lasting change—for the animals, and for the people who care about them.

Why Sterilisation Matters

It is estimated that over 3 million street dogs live in Sri Lanka today—many suffering from malnutrition, untreated disease, and injuries, often caused by human cruelty or traffic accidents. In some rural regions, the ratio of dogs to humans can be as high as 1:3, far exceeding the capacity of communities to provide adequate veterinary care.

Street animals live in harsh, unforgiving environments with little to no access to veterinary care. They face daily threats from parasites, starvation, injuries, and zoonotic diseases such as rabies, which not only cause immense animal suffering but also pose serious public health risks. Without intervention, a single unsterilised dog and her offspring can lead to thousands more within just a few years. Most of these offspring will not survive past their first year. Adult street animals rarely live beyond a few years, enduring chronic pain and fear, often subjected to cruel treatment due to fear or frustration within the community.

That’s why our sterilisation program is essential. It’s the most humane and effective way to:

  • Prevent the birth of thousands of unwanted animals
  • Reduce the spread of deadly diseases like rabies
  • Lower the risk of dog bites and fear-driven abuse
  • Improve the quality of life for dogs already on the street and in the community

Sterilisation isn’t just population control—it’s a long-term, compassionate solution that creates safer, healthier communities for both animals and people. It’s where real change begins.