Dharwad ZP CEO Calls for Coordinated Action to Tackle Rising Stray Dog Menace
In response to a sharp increase in dog-bite incidents, Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Bhuvanesh Patil, who also serves as the in-charge deputy commissioner, has emphasized the critical need for immediate and coordinated measures to manage stray dog populations. Patil has prioritized Animal Birth Control (ABC) and anti-rabies vaccination programs as essential strategies to address this public safety issue.
Review Meeting Highlights Urgent Steps
Presiding over a review meeting of the district monitoring committee at the Zilla Panchayat, Patil directed local bodies and concerned departments to take proactive steps to prevent dog-bite cases and ensure community safety. He stressed that these efforts must be systematic and well-planned to achieve tangible results.
Patil also instructed officials to organize awareness programs on preventive measures and first aid protocols to be followed after dog bites, aiming to educate the public and reduce panic and improper handling of such incidents.
Implementation of Animal Birth Control Program
Under the ABC program, urban local bodies are responsible for its execution. Patil outlined that a scientific survey or estimation based on population norms must first be conducted to accurately assess the stray dog population. Following this, plans should be developed to sterilize at least 50% of these dogs, a target set to curb population growth effectively.
Local bodies have been directed to establish ABC centers equipped with kennel facilities and operation theatres. This can be achieved by engaging NGOs recognized by the Animal Welfare Board of India or, in their absence, by utilizing government veterinary doctors through the animal husbandry department.
ABC Protocol and Financial Responsibilities
The ABC protocol involves a comprehensive process:
- Capturing stray dogs safely.
- Performing sterilisation surgery.
- Providing post-operative care for three to four days.
- Administering anti-rabies vaccination.
- Releasing the dogs back into their original locations.
Patil clarified that the cost per dog, approximately Rs 1,650, must be borne by the respective local bodies from their own funds, ensuring financial accountability in the implementation process.
Alarming Statistics on Dog-Bite Cases
Highlighting the severity of the situation, Patil revealed that Dharwad reported a staggering 13,433 dog-bite cases in 2025. Additionally, between January and February 2, 2026, 1,552 cases were recorded, indicating a persistent and urgent problem.
Regarding rabies, no confirmed deaths were reported in the district between 2022 and 2025. However, one suspected case was reported in December 2025 and is currently under medical verification, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and preventive measures.
This coordinated approach aims to mitigate risks and enhance public health safety in Dharwad, addressing both immediate concerns and long-term population control of stray dogs.
