Tahiti proposes a new dog sanctuary

The Alliance for the Respect and Protection of Animals of French Polynesia (ARPAP) has proposed the 'Oa’oa project, a "sanctuary" canine model described as "exemplary and ecological," aimed at addressing the situation at the illegal dog shelter of Afaahiti. The project has been under consideration since the end of July, with the goal of obtaining approval from the Territory.

Project aims to solve a triple crisis

According to Carole Couturier, president of ARPAP, the 'Oa’oa project, which means "joy" or "happiness" in Tahitian, is a "unique accommodation project in the Pacific" that brings together several associations. The project is described as an "alternative" model to address a "triple emergency": ending the inadequate housing situation for 54 dogs currently held by the association TTMA, proposing an alternative to concrete, and establishing a reference framework reproducible throughout French Polynesia.

Design details of the sanctuary

The two plots under consideration would be located more than 800 meters from residences to limit nuisances. The project would include six "mini-shelters," each managed by one of the six partner associations, with five enclosures for a maximum of nine dogs each. A seventh association would manage the common areas. The overall project would include thirty enclosures of at least 20 m², with paid caretakers, trained volunteers, and a reference veterinarian.

Emphasis on natural behavior and sustainability

The approach in the open air aims to be part of a sustainable approach, allowing dogs to maintain natural behaviors, which would make them calmer and more sociable, easier to present to future adopters. The project includes a comprehensive ecological approach for the management of effluents, inspired by the principles of phytoremediation and composting.

Funding and regulatory challenges

The project's investment budget is estimated at 12.3 million francs, with annual operating costs of around 17 million francs, or 863 francs per dog per day. The project respects all the requirements of the decree n° 1469 CM of September 3, 2009, relating to the accommodation places of animals, and its design aligns with the standards applicable to the most demanding classified installations. Although the material support of certain companies is already planned, the search for additional funding would be suspended pending the approval of the authorities, following a presentation to the minister in charge of animal welfare, Taivini Teai, on July 29. ARPAP expressed frustration with the lack of positioning of the Territory to allow the creation of this place quickly in full legality, noting that the projects envisioned can only be realized in years.