The Agricultural University of Tirana is participating in the veterinary volunteer campaign “Strays of Albania – Safe Paws,” an initiative that brings together experts, students, and partner organizations to carry out the sterilization, neutering, and vaccination of dogs and cats in the city of Tropoja.
The activity is organized in collaboration with World Vets, the Jahangiri Foundation, the Municipality of Tropoja, the National Authority for Veterinary and Plant Protection (NAVPP), and the Professional Order of Veterinarians of Albania (POVA). It follows a cooperation memorandum previously signed at the Agricultural University of Tirana, aimed at strengthening joint efforts in animal welfare and veterinary services across Albania.
The campaign, taking place from 12 to 19 June 2026, aims to contribute to the management of the stray animal population, improve animal welfare, and enhance public health and community safety through preventive veterinary care and responsible population control measures.
The activities began on 12 June with an open lecture and Open Day held at the premises of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the Agricultural University of Tirana. On 13 June, participants traveled to Tropoja, where training sessions were conducted on animal capture and handling procedures, registration protocols, surgical interventions, and post-operative care and treatment.
During 14–15 June, teams carried out the identification, capture, and registration of dogs and cats in the urban areas of the city. From 16 to 18 June, surgical procedures for sterilization, neutering, and vaccination are being performed. The campaign will conclude on 18–19 June with the post-surgical monitoring of treated animals and the completion of field operations.
Through this initiative, the Agricultural University of Tirana and its partners continue to contribute to the practical education of veterinary students, the promotion of veterinary services, and the improvement of animal welfare standards in Albania.
