Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-04-11 12:43:58
The growing menace of stray dog bites and the potential spread of rabies in Kampala have prompted city authorities to take action by sterilizing dogs in an effort to reduce the number of stray canines.
According to the acting district veterinary officer, Dr. Herbert Kasiita, recent data indicates that there are approximately 6,000 stray dogs in the city, with an additional 2,000 dogs belonging to owners who neglect their care. Dr. Kasiita emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that last year alone there were 6,000 stray dogs in Kampala, and the number has likely increased since then.
The escalating population of stray dogs has become a significant challenge in not only Kampala but also the entire country of Uganda. Over a period of five years from 2015 to 2020, Uganda recorded 14,865 dog bites and 36 dog-related deaths due to rabies. The veterinarian at Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) reported an average of 15 to 20 dog bites per month in May 2023.
Rabies is a lethal viral disease that spreads through saliva, usually transmitted via bites, scratches, or direct contact with mucosa. Dogs are the primary source of human rabies deaths, responsible for up to 99 percent of all transmissions to humans. The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies rabies as a preventable viral disease that causes tens of thousands of deaths annually, primarily affecting children under 15 years old in countries like Asia and Africa.
Dr. Kasiita defined stray dogs as owned pets that have lost their way and now roam places like marketplaces and abattoirs in search of food. He highlighted the various reasons why owned dogs become strays, such as venturing out during mating seasons or seeking better nourishment in public places.
To address the issue of stray dogs and the risk of rabies, KCCA has initiated a sterilization program involving spaying and neutering procedures. The goal is to vaccinate 5,000 dogs and perform surgeries on 600 dogs in Kampala alone. Dr. Kasiita emphasized the importance of responsible pet ownership, urging dog owners to restrain their pets and prevent them from becoming strays.
Community engagement plays a crucial role in combating the stray dog population and reducing the risk of rabies. KCCA collaborates with various organizations to conduct free community vaccinations and promote responsible pet ownership. The enforcement of the KCCA livestock ordinance of 2006 aims to hold negligent pet owners accountable by imposing fines or imprisonment.
Sterilization procedures such as castrating and spaying are essential in controlling the stray dog population and preventing the spread of rabies. Neutering male dogs involves removing the testicles, while spaying female dogs involves removing the reproductive organs. These procedures eliminate the risk of unwanted puppies and offer various health benefits to the animals.
In conclusion, the efforts to sterilize dogs in Kampala are vital in curbing the stray dog population and reducing the incidence of rabies. By promoting responsible pet ownership and community engagement, authorities aim to create a safer environment for residents and animals alike.
Read the original article on Uganda Monitor
