Embark's Sigiriya project receives community support

Sigiriya and its environs have become the latest example of responsible management of community canines, following the completion of the third phase of the Sigiriya Animal Protection Project by Embark.

The fashion brand linked to community animal welfare has reported that its team conducted 313 sterilisations, 349 vaccinations and treated 124 at seven clinic days in Rotawewa, Inamaluwa, igampathana and the Pidurangala Air Force camp, under this phase of the project.

The project began in October 2014 and had by the end of its third phase, vaccinated 1,138 and sterilised 776 owned and community dogs as part of its commitment.

The Sigiriya project is sustained by assistance received from the Fondation Brigitte Bardot (The Brigitte Bardot Foundation) - a leading animal protection organisation in France, Best Care Animal Hospital - Embark's veterinary partner and Jetwing Vil Uyana.

Its objectives include educating the community on responsible pet ownership, promoting compassion towards community animals and its management and supporting national efforts to eliminate rabies.

The third phase of the project took place during paddy harvesting, but large numbers of villagers found the time to bring their dogs to the clinics conducted by the Embark team.

Founder, Embark, Otara Gunewardene said the success of the project gives Embark particular satisfaction, given the historical and archaeological significance of Sigiriya as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

"Sigiriya is one of the best preserved examples of ancient urban planning, and we are happy to help this compassionate community that cares about animals but lacks the proper veterinary care to do so," she said.

"The project received encouragement from tourists from around the world who identified themselves with the Embark philosophy of making a sustainable change in the way people perceive and treat street dogs.