Solving the dog problems in Panama

Dear Editor,

I read with interest a footnote on Philip Edmonston column in the Panama Star on 3rd February 2009. He stated that a report from the ‘Chengdu Business Daily’ had reported that cats and dogs continue to be eaten in large numbers in many restaurants in China.

This I thought would be an ideal solution to the increasing numbers of stray dogs and even so called domestic dogs residing in Panama.

I have little interest in cats as they seem so aloof one wonders if they even require owners. However, it did somewhat disturb me that in N. America so called ‘cat lovers’ were so concerned with their interior decoration in their apartments that they de-clawed, neutered and were trained to do the business in a so called ‘kitty litter.’ If that wasn’t bad enough they were walked around their complexes on a lead; now how humiliating that must be for any feline species!

No, my concern is the incessant barking of so called domesticated dogs left out all day and night in stifling heat, bored stupid and any small noise will send them into a frenzy. The owners are so cocooned in their air conditioned abode where they do not hear them, or alternatively don’t care. This can be most annoying when you are trying to get to sleep or alternatively woken up with a yapping dog.

Like most Panamanians I like going to the Interior especially Santa-Clara. A couple of years ago my wife and I were happily walking down the beach which was totally deserted being off season and were affronted with a pack of wild stray dogs. Not only was this frightening but also exceedingly dangerous as there was no one around to assist us.

Fortunately having been owners of St. Bernard’s in our youthful years I had read in a dog magazine to do three things. Firstly, no eye contact, this can be threatening behavior. Secondly, do not run, they will only chase you.

Thirdly, look down and make puppy noises. Now I know you think this is crazy but it works and after several minutes of abject confusion on their part they left us alone.

There are many stray dogs in the city and on more than one occasion I have almost hit one when driving. Noting Panama’s resources are limited especially in the eyes of the police as they are trying to combat more important issues ‘what is one to do?’

We have a thriving entrepreneurial Chinese community here working long hours in shops and restaurants. I am curious why they have not continued their chosen delicacy in Panama; there are plenty of dogs which I am sure would be of much more use on a starving mans plate!

- Barry Lloyd