The strict implementation of ABC program and other measures will hopefully bring down the stray dog problem faced by the state.

In the wake of increasing incidents of stray dog attacks in Kerala, the state government has came up with some steps to control the stray dog menace.

The state government has directed all civic bodies to strictly implement the Animal Birth Control (ABC) program and vaccination for dogs.

Sri Lankan Model

Kerala will be emulating the Sri Lankan model to control stray dog menace. Sri Lanka has an effective sterilization and vaccination methodologies to control dog population along with the logistics. Measures will be taken based on this model.

Sterilization centers in every Talkus

ABC program will be extended to more areas and the vaccination of animals would also be intensified. Animal Husbandry Department will setup 25 new centers to the existing 50 sterilization centers in taluk headquarters in another 2-3 months. The mission is to provide facilities to every block panchayats to perform sterilization on dogs. Local bodies will have to utilize their plan funds to meet the expenses.

Paying handsome remuneration to dog catchers

Dog catchers will be given handsome remuneration for their work. The state government has given consent to increase the wage of dog catchers as part of ABC programme from Rs 75 per dog to Rs 250, a 200% increase. The remuneration will cover cost of catching dogs and their transportation to the ABC centre.

Free Medical Treatment

Other measures include providing free treatment to the victims of stray dog attack and making sure that there is adequate supply of medicines and vaccines for treatment.

The strict implementation of ABC program and other measures will hopefully bring down the stray dog problem faced by the state.

PS: The government said that culling is NOT part of the government policy to bring the stray dog menace under control. So ‘pseudo animal lovers’ can take the chill pill and relax!