Document Type : Original Article
Authors
- Tahareh Kamalikhah 1
- Somayeh Mirrezaei 2
- Nooshin Rouhani-Tonekaboni 3
- Masoud Karimi 4
- Fariba Shahraki-Sanavi 5
1 Department of Health Education and Health Promotion, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
2 JamKaran Comprehensive Health Service Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
3 Department of Health Education and Promotion, Research Center of Health and Environment, School of Health, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
4 Department of Health Education and Promotion, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
5 Health Promotion Research Center, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
Abstract
Background: The rising dog population, increasing incidence of animal bites, and the spread of diseases associated with such bites necessitate enhanced focus on disease control and research in various regions. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of key stakeholders in management committee of stray dogs and to provide clarification of the persistence of stray dog issues in Aradan City, Semnan Province, Iran, in 2017.
Methods: A qualitative content analysis research with inductive approach was utilized, employing a community readiness model questionnaire. The sampling method in this study was purposive sampling. Interviews were individual and face to face which lasted averaging 72 minutes and were conducted with 11 key stakeholders, including 11 key members including Managers of the municipality, governorship, district administration, environmental health and environmental protection. Data were analyzed through qualitative content analysis using conventional content analysis.
Results: 11 Participantssemi-structural interviews were conducted. A total of 870 initial codes were identified, refined to 589 codes, resulting in 18 subcategories and seven categories and two themes : opportunities and challenges include opportunity: potential partnerships with other organizations, strengths: successful project outcomes, threats: contextual urban barriers, weaknesses : local governmental (municipality) challenges and recommendation include culturalization, suggestion of other organization, and suggestion of municipality.
Conclusion: In Aradan county strengths of collecting stray dogs were collecting with the support of the municipality and city council, the presence of a contractor, and cooperation with external organizations, resulting in improved sanitation and reduced biting. Also weaknesses were organizational problems, budget shortages, weakness in training and internal communications, and a lack of coherent in project's implementation. Threats including the urban-rural structure, cultural behaviors, resource scarcity, poor inter-organizational coordination, and legal issues were major challenges. On the other hand Public support, and educational programs provided opportunities for the project's success and sustainability.
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