Puppy abandonment continues irresponsibly: Veterinarians

By Chaturanga Pradeep Samarawickrama

Although over 60% of community dogs have been sterilized and more than 80% vaccinated against diseases, including rabies, people continue to irresponsibly abandon puppies on the streets, Association of Veterinarians for Humane Management of Animal Population, Dr. Chamith Nanayakkara said.  

Addressing the media, he said that 85% of pet owners still do not know where to go or whom to approach for guidance on controlling the dog population.  

If proper programmes or systems were in place to inform these people, they would most likely sterilize their dogs.  

A systematic programme needs to be implemented immediately. While proposals have been made, infrastructure exists, and programme plans are ready, a lack of coordination between departments has prevented successful implementation.

Humane dog population control through spay-neuter-vaccinate programmes is possible. Programmes conducted in Anuradhapura and other areas have shown that it works when implemented properly.  

He suggested forming a secretariat under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance to create a national policy and develop a roadmap to address threats to crops and people caused by animals.  

He also pointed out that false information provided to the President and other officials worsens the human-animal conflict.  

“This country needs a national policy. We elected the government to create one. Every country has its own policy. According to our culture, we do not shoot animals, even though the minister suggested it. Tourists don’t come to see buildings; they come to see elephants and enjoy the natural beauty of our country,” he said.  

In 2007, 63 people died due to dog bites, but by 2024, this number had dropped to 11.