Cairo Launches Landmark Shelter, Vaccination Project for Stray Animals

 On 13 January 2026, Cairo Governor Dr. Ibrahim Saber issued the first project for sheltering and vaccinating stray animals to make a significant move toward humane urban management. This project marks a strategic shifting from the traditional animal control to a scientific approach that balances public safety with strict animal safety standards. 

The project centers in the newly allocated 2,800 square meter land at the east of the Autostrad road in the Tebbin district. This facility will serve as a shelter for Medical rehabilitation, mass vaccination and sterilization and safe integration.

This move serves the national vision of Egypt free rabies 2030. The team successfully vaccinated nearly 300 dogs in a single day. 

Also, the project incorporates the adoption policy once the animals are proven to be disease free and vaccinated they will be available for adoption to the public. 

How were the animals treated in antiquity?

Ancient Egyptians believed that the animals carried divine powers. As you can see in many statues and inscriptions, some species were associated with specific gods, others were daily companions or laborers and many were both. The sacred animals were: Cats, Ibises, Dogs, Crocodiles, bulls and baboons. What's interesting is that pet system wasn't new to them. They actually had pets especially cats, dogs, monkeys and birds. The ritual animals were bred and sacrificied and mummified as offerings to the gods.

 In ancient Egypt, the roles of dogs varied according to the species. However, the most practical was to tame hunting dogs. Guarding dogs, companion dogs (pets) and ritual dogs were also used in daily life basis. They loved their dogs alot. There are tombs that contain the names of the owner pet mourning them and some were buried with them. 

The dogs were associated with god Anubis. They were scavengers near cemetries, slaughterhouses and temples as part of the urban system. They weren't rescued in the modern shelter terms nor persecuted universally. 

You can find the mourning of dogs in tombs in the cemetry G 2100 on the western side of Giza. In KV 50, there is a mummified dog probably a pet but there isn't mourning inscriptions. There are plenty of dogs collars and depictions found in various tombs across Egypt.

We highly recommend that you visit Egypt to unravel the secrets of the urban life of the domestic animals. It is a unique experience. Check our classical tours, economic tours, easter tours, packages and shore excursions! we offer you the best prices and services.