Muscat – Amid rising complaints of safety concerns, Muscat Municipality has launched an initiative aimed at tackling the growing number of stray animals – especially dogs – across the capital’s residential areas.

Residents have often reported disturbances caused by stray packs – barking, fighting and howling late into the night. Concerns range from noise and foul odour to more serious issues such as safety and public hygiene.

“Every night, we hear dogs barking and fighting. It’s hard to sleep. I have to check twice before letting my children play outside. While we understand they are living beings, their growing numbers make it very difficult for us,” said Amerat resident Mohammed al Abri.

Fatima al Zadjali, a mother of three in Seeb, shared a similar experience. “There are packs of dogs near the wadi by our home. My children are scared and I hesitate to walk alone in the early morning. My cousin’s son was bitten badly, making all of us fearful. The cats are also a nuisance, scattering garbage everywhere.”

Such concerns are common across the capital. Ruwi-based Suresh Nair said, “I’ve seen dogs chase delivery riders and scare people. Strays have become a nuisance, especially at night. But I’ve always believed there has to be a better solution to tackle the menace.”

In response, Muscat Municipality launched ‘Rifq’, an initiative centred on humane care and rehabilitation of stray animals. The programme adopts a structured approach aligned with international animal welfare standards, prioritising public health, environmental sustainability and biodiversity.

The initiative allows residents to report sightings of stray animals, prompting swift and humane response by designated authorities. It also includes partnerships with specialised companies to manage safe animal capture and care.

“With Rifq, we now have hope that compassion will lead our policies,” said Nabeela al Balushi, a pet owner and animal rescue volunteer. “I have myself rescued dogs from wadis. With a little love and care, they become part of families.”

Animal welfare advocate Rahul Mehra welcomed the initiative. “This is not only a relief, but also a call for action. We, as pet lovers, must now come forward to support it -through volunteering, awareness drives and adoptions,” he said. He also noted that veterinary care in the city is costly, suggesting basic services be made accessible at Rifq centres for low-income families.

The call for greater community participation is growing. Fatima Khan, who shelters stray cats, said, “As Rifq takes root, it symbolises a turning point in Oman’s animal welfare journey – where community action replaces indifference.” She proposed forming an association of pet lovers to work with the municipality and recommended simplified adoption procedures to increase the number of rescued animals finding homes.