Rabies remains an underreported disease in many developing countries. The disease is prevalent amongst the Sri Lankan canine population, representing a serious concern for the island. Mission Rabies - in collaboration with local partner charity Dogstar Foundation - ran a pilot vaccination campaign in January 2015 in Negombo to demonstrate the effectiveness of protocols and to establish the feasibility of transferring these to working outside of India.
In partnership with Dogstar Foundation, our project has grown from strength to strength, having worked across the 3 districts and communities of Negombo, Katana and Wennappuwa - vaccinating over 21,000 dogs!
Whilst unfortunately COVID-19 restrictions have limited our recent on-the-ground activities, at the beginning of 2021, we were pleased to be invited to be the lead consultant for the National Strategic Plan for the elimination of dog mediated human rabies in Sri Lanka. We are committed to continue to support the Sri Lankan authorities in their rabies control programme and look forward to returning to our Sri Lanka project in the future.
Founded in 2006 by Samantha and Mark Green Dogstar Foundation is transforming animal welfare in Sri Lanka. Dogstar has always worked closely with Sri Lankan communities, Veterinary professionals and local authorities to provide humane dog population management, education leading to attitude change and the development of veterinary practice. Since 2015 Dogstar has partnered with Mission Rabies to deliver Mass Rabies vaccination programs in Negombo.
A dog charity with a difference, taking a scientific and evidence led approach to animal welfare, Dogstar is committed to tackling welfare issues at the root causes and providing sustainable solutions. As a founding member of The Animal Welfare Coalition of Sri Lanka Dogstar also advocate for new and improved animal welfare legislation.