On June 22, 2026, FIFA enlisted the services of specially trained bird dogs to remove geese from a practice field used by teams preparing for the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Toronto. The operation took place on a designated practice pitch in the city, with the goal of keeping the surface in optimal condition for training sessions ahead of the tournament.
The deployment of the canine team is part of a broader effort by event organizers to manage wildlife that could interfere with the playability of soccer fields. Geese, known to congregate in open grassy areas, have been observed on the practice grounds, prompting the decision to employ animal handlers and their dogs to safely and efficiently clear the birds. The birds are guided away from the field without harm, allowing the pitch to remain usable for the intense schedule of pre‑World Cup activities.
City officials and FIFA representatives have indicated that maintaining a clean and safe playing surface is essential as Toronto prepares to host matches for the World Cup. The use of bird dogs reflects a practical approach to wildlife control, leveraging trained animals to address the issue quickly and with minimal disruption to the training timetable. As the tournament approaches, similar measures may be applied to other venues across the region to ensure that all fields meet the standards required for world‑class competition.