Pakistan Reports One Million Dog Bite Cases Annually

Mon Sep 02 2024
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ISLAMABAD: The rise in the population of stray dogs is becoming a serious threat to the residents of Islamabad. According to Pakistan state-run news agency APP, the stray dog population continues to surge, despite ongoing spaying and neutering programs. Officials reported that this surge is leading to frequent attacks and increased safety concerns in Islamabad.

Pakistan is Home of 3 Million Stray Dogs

Reports also indicate that Pakistan is home to around 3 million stray dogs, with over one million dog bite cases reported annually. In addition to the legal measures regarding stray animals, a high number of unclaimed dogs are euthanised, driven by low adoption rates.

Afia Khan, an expert on animal behaviour, highlighted the challenges faced by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) in managing stray animals; including a significant increase in dog bite incidence and low adoption rates.

Speaking to the APP, Afia Khan noted that stray dogs exhibit aggressive behaviour oftentimes, and have become a major concern for the residents; particularly affecting children, women, and the elderly. Multiple reports of dog attacks have heightened the concerns about communal safety.

She acknowledged the availability of sterilization programs and how some people ignore them. However, those who actively care for stray animals often step in to address the problem and offer their assistance. The country’s approach to dealing with stray dogs is lenient in comparison with other countries. Pakistan does not euthanize as many dogs and follows the philosophy of ‘live and let live’. The level of care provided to the dogs remains insufficient irrespective.

Afia Khan also said that the stray animals present several challenges, such as public health risks and growing concerns for animal welfare. She emphasized upon the implementation of effective management strategies to tackle these issues.

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