Spatial and Temporal Dynamics of the Canine Population and Contamination by Canine Feces on an Urban Beach

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to analyze the spatio-temporal distribution of dogs and feces using the visual census method. The research aimed to quantify the presence of dogs and the number of feces observed in these environments. Method: The visual census was conducted every fifteen days over the course of one year along the Mar Grosso beach shoreline, which was divided into areas and sectors. The data were subsequently tabulated, and statistical analysis was performed using the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test. Research Results and Discussions: The highest number of feces and stray dogs were found in the urban sector during the summer. Regarding the areas observed and feces, the area with the highest number of feces was A3 in the urban sector during the summer. As for the number of stray, domiciled, and off-leash dogs, they were more frequently observed in the summer, with stray dogs predominantly in A2 (beach sector), and domiciled and off-leash dogs in A3 and A2, respectively, in the urban sector. Research Implications: The results identify hotspots of feces and dogs along the study area, providing valuable information that can assist in decision-making and the implementation of public policies aimed at controlling animals on beaches and protecting the environment, thereby reducing the risk of disease transmission to the population frequenting these locations. Originality/Value: This study contributes to evidence-based policy implementation to promote environmental health, public health, and animal welfare in coastal areas.