The Problem of Stray Dogs and Cattle in India

The rising number of stray dogs and stray cattle in India has become a serious public health, safety, and economic challenge.

- -baljit singh brar

According to recent estimates, by 2025 the population of stray dogs has reached nearly 62 million, while the number of stray cattle—especially cows and bulls—has crossed 5 million. These animals are increasingly responsible for road accidents, the spread of deadly diseases such as rabies, and large-scale damage to agriculture. Stray dogs pose a major threat to public health. Every year, millions of people suffer dog bites, and India accounts for the highest number of rabies-related deaths globally. Children and the elderly are the most vulnerable. The cost of post-exposure treatment places a heavy financial burden on poor families. At the same time, stray cattle roaming on highways and urban roads cause fatal accidents, particularly at night. In rural areas, they destroy crops, forcing farmers in states like Punjab, Uttar Prade