Dehradun is set to establish its first municipal dog shelters, as the Dehradun Municipal Corporation (DMC) plans two facilities at Kedar Puram and Shankarpur in Selaqui. Dr. Varun Agarwal, a senior veterinary doctor associated with DMC, confirmed that land for both sites has been identified and a detailed project report worth Rs 4 crore has been submitted to the urban development directorate.
Shelter Capacity and Purpose
The two shelters will together have the capacity to house over 550 dogs, including stray, abandoned, and surrendered animals. The primary goal is rehabilitation and adoption. These municipal facilities will supplement the existing private shelters in the city.
Officials stated that the initiative was taken by the municipal commissioner in line with the Supreme Court's mandate to remove stray dogs from sensitive areas such as schools, hospitals, and bus stands.
Sterilization and Vaccination Efforts
Between 2016 and March 2026, 54,270 dogs have been sterilized within the municipal jurisdiction. The district also has over 260 government clinics providing rabies vaccines.
Dr. Agarwal emphasized that the move aims to address the city's growing stray dog population while improving public safety. Additionally, the city currently has 72 kennels, which are boarding facilities for pets when owners are away. This number is expected to increase to 150 within the next two months.
Stray Dog Population in Dehradun
Although no recent survey has been conducted, official figures from 2019 estimated around 34,000 stray dogs in Dehradun, while unofficial estimates placed the number closer to 50,000. Officials believe the figure has risen significantly since then. Residents report increasing encounters with stray dogs.
Dinesh Kumar, a resident of Mayur Vihar, said, "Stray dogs can be particularly dangerous for two-wheeler riders and children. I have seen children being chased and harassed by stray dogs. It is not safe for them to roam freely in colonies and on roads."
Animal Welfare Groups' Perspective
Animal welfare groups have welcomed the plan but stressed the need for humane management. Rubina Nitin Iyer, an animal rights activist associated with People for Animals Uttarakhand, said, "The shelters should be established in line with Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules 2023. Adequate veterinary care, hygiene, and space standards should be maintained, and CCTV cameras should be installed to ensure accountability."
She added, "The city should also invest in community-level engagement, designated feeding areas, awareness campaigns, and sensitizing communities to help reduce fear and conflict."
