Stray dogs at Kovai hosp: Staff blame animal birth control centre next door

THE Coimbatore Medical College Hospital (CMCH), meant to be a centre for healing, has become a cause of worry for patients and visitors. More than 20 stray dogs have been seen roaming freely inside the hospital campus, including wards and visitor shelters.

- SNEHA SIVASHANMUGAM @ Coimbatore

When TNIE visited the hospital, about 10 dogs were seen barking and fighting near crowded areas in front of the dean's office. Dogs were also spotted on the ground floor of the centenary building.

"While waiting under the shelter, dogs kept coming close and fighting. I could not sit in peace. I felt unsafe and scared that I might get bitten," said a patient, who did not want to be named.

Hospital security staff said the problem has increased because the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Centre is located just 3 km away in Ukkadam. After surgery, some dogs are released back in the area - often close to the hospital - making it a common place for dogs to gather.