BCC shoots 271 stray dogs

Thubelihle Mabhena Chronicle Reporter
THE Bulawayo City Council has in three months shot 271 stray dogs found roaming in residential areas, a senior official has confirmed. Council health services director Zanele Hwalima yesterday said the programme has cost the local authority $1,510,64. It is aimed at containing the spread of rabies. The operation — code-named Tie up Order — began on February 23 and ended on March 22 this year.

The highest number of stray dogs, 45, was put down in Cowdray Park suburb.

Eight police officers and council officials carried out the exercise.

A total of 22 dogs were shot in Emganwini, Nketa 6, 7, 8 and 9. Nkulumane had 18, North End and Paddonhurst 13, Pumula North and East and Luveve 5, New and Old 11 while Emakhandeni and Entumbane had 10 each.

The exercise was carried out following an outbreak of rabies in some parts of the country.

In February rabies claimed two lives in Tsholotsho with 10 people reported to have been bitten by rabid animals.

Council’s public relations officer Nesisa Mpofu told The Chronicle recently that stray dogs posed a challenge to the city as it was difficult to trace their vaccination record.

“These dogs pose a danger to society as they do not have traceable medical records. If they bite someone, it becomes difficult to trace the dog and their owners since they are always roaming the streets,” said Mpofu.

Two months ago BCC flighted a notice warning residents that the local authority would start shooting stray animals.

“The city of Bulawayo has noted that there is an increasing number of rabies positive dogs and people who are bitten by stray dogs. Dog owners and the general public are advised that in terms of the Bulawayo dog licensing and control by- laws, no person shall allow his dog to roam outside his premises without restraint,” reads part of the notice.