The Karnataka Government has issued a strict 15-point action plan to curb the rising stray dog population, placing direct responsibility on municipal bodies to ensure timely sterilization and vaccination.
In a circular dated November 19, Chief Secretary Dr. Shalini Rajneesh instructed all district administrations, urban local bodies, and municipal health institutions to comply with the revised guidelines immediately.
Mandatory Scientific Sterilization and Vaccination
Under the updated norms, all urban local bodies must follow the catch–neuter–vaccinate–release (CNVR) method through authorised veterinary agencies. The government noted that insufficient sterilization efforts by municipal bodies have led to the current spike in stray dog numbers.
City corporations and municipalities must maintain detailed records, upgrade sterilization facilities, and ensure procedures are conducted solely by certified veterinary professionals.
Quarterly Health Tests for Stray Dogs
The circular also requires hospitals to conduct zoonotic disease testing on stray dogs every three months. Veterinary experts will track health indicators and work to control diseases like rabies.
Veterinary colleges, research institutions, and municipal health departments will jointly support implementation.
Public Awareness and Accountability Measures
The government has stressed the need for public awareness campaigns, particularly discouraging feeding stray dogs in public or residential spaces. Strict deadlines have been set for completing sterilization drives, and officials have been warned of action in case of delays or lapses.
Municipalities must also hold regular coordination meetings with NGOs and animal welfare groups to ensure smooth execution of the programme.
