Bawa Education: Animal Welfare, Rabies Awareness And Prevention

In Bali, poverty, lack of education, and traditions that ignore cruelty to dogs are often part of life. Issues include a general lack of understanding of dogs as sentient beings; free-roaming dogs without adequate food, shelter and veterinary care; chaining and caging in inhumane conditions; dumping of unwanted puppies; motor vehicle accidents; poisoning; dogmeat consumption; acts of cruelty; and basic neglect. In addition, rabies is currently present in all regions of Bali, posing a serious threat to human and animal health. We are convinced that the key to sustainable change to dog welfare and safety lies in education. Our main aims are to encourage empathy and compassion for dogs, to raise children’s awareness of the needs and welfare of dogs, how to stay safe around dogs, and what to do if they are bitten. Students are encouraged to take this awareness into their communities, thereby preventing issues before they occur.