{ AMID RISE IN DOG BITE CASES } Kerala to allow euthanasia of seriously ill stray dogs, launch mobile sterilisation

Kerala will launch a crackdown on stray dogs by rolling out mobile sterilisation units in 152 blocks and permit the euthanasia of seriously ill animals, following public concern over recent rabies-linked deaths in the state.

- Press Trust of India

Local self-government minister MB Rajesh said on Wednesday that before deploying the portable ABC (Animal Birth Control) units across the blocks, a pilot study would be conducted in Nedumangad, using one unit under the leadership of the animal husbandry department.

“These portable units are more cost-effective than permanent ABC centres,” he told a press conference after a joint discussion involving the animal husbandry, local self-government, and law departments regarding stray dog control.

He also said a large-scale vaccination drive for stray dogs would be conducted in August.

“Each portable ABC unit will cost ₹28 lakh. Once an order is placed, it will take about two months for the units to be delivered. During this period, suitable locations for operating the units will be identified by the respective panchayats and municipalities,” the minister said.