adminRunesu Gwidi Herald Correspondent
Government has re-affirmed its commitment to scale up the fight against the spread of rabies with an average of 1 000 stray dogs being collected for rehabilitation by the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) in Masvingo province.
Cases of rabies in humans have been increasing in Masvingo jolting Government and its implementing partners into action to curb the spread of the disease.
SPCA Masvingo Regional Inspector Mr John Chikomo yesterday said on average of 700 to 1 000 stray dogs were being rehabilitated and vaccinated at the SPCA kennels in Masvingo per annum.
The SPCA works hand-in-glove with the Veterinary Services Department and local authorities in curbing the number of stray dogs that roam streets in major towns and urban settlements across the province.
“We collect, shelter and provide food to the stray dogs that we collect from the streets to prevent their conflict with human and chances of them causing rabies outbreak,” Mr Chikomo said.
“At the moment, our regional complex has 69 dogs of different breeds in its kennels.
“The Veterinary Services Department is doing a sterling job of vaccinating dogs around the province.
“We are fighting hard to prevent the outbreak of rabies.”
He said the major challenge at the main SPCA branch in the city was lack of resources, particularly vehicles to transport captured stray dogs.
Transport challenges also hampered regular surveys on cruelty to animals in the region. Mr Chikomo said the date for next dog tied-up programme in Masvingo city would be announced in July.
The SPCA regional boss said it was a punishable offence to let dogs roam the streets or deny them food and shelter.
“The Prevention of Cruelty in Animals Act stipulates dogs, like humans have the right to food, shelter and disease prevention,” he said.
Cases of rabies in humans have been on the increase in Masvingo city and Chiredzi due to the increase in the population of stray dogs in urban settlements.
Online Reporter