Over 7 lakh stray dogs in Odisha, mass sterilisation and vaccination drive soon: Minister

The Odisha government on Saturday announced a comprehensive programme to count, sterilise, and vaccinate stray dogs across the state. The decision follows the Supreme Court’s revised order on the management of stray animals.

Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Minister Gokulananda Mallick said the department would strictly implement the Court’s guidelines.

“Stray dogs will be sterilised, vaccinated, and then released back in their original locations. Those identified as violent or suffering from rabies will be kept in shelters,” Mallick stated during an interaction with media persons on Saturday.

Seven Lakh Strays in Odisha, Fresh Census Soon

According to official figures, Odisha has around seven lakh stray dogs, compared to 64,000 registered pet dogs. Officials said the sheer population of strays has created challenges ranging from street safety to health hazards, prompting the need for systematic control measures. Further, a fresh census will also be conducted to update this figure.

"The state government has handed over the responsibility to carry out the sterilisation, vaccination, and census of the stray dogs to my department. Cases of accidental injuries to stray dogs can also be reported to the department via the 1962 toll-free number. Such dogs will be rescued, provided with healthcare, vaccinated, and released after sterilisation,” said the Minister.

Feeding and Meat-Selling Rules Tightened

Alongside the sterilisation drive, the department has issued instructions to municipalities to regulate feeding practices. Residents have been advised not to feed stray dogs indiscriminately on roadsides. Instead, designated feeding zones will be created where individuals and NGOs can provide food.

To prevent strays from scavenging on open waste, fresh rules prohibit the slaughter and disposal of chicken or mutton along roadsides. Shops will now be required to cut meat only at designated sites and dispose of remains responsibly.

Municipalities and NGOs to be Involved

All municipalities have been directed to ensure compliance with the new guidelines. NGOs and social organisations working for animal welfare will be roped in to manage feeding in identified spots and to assist with vaccination campaigns.

Further, authorities also plan to launch awareness campaigns urging citizens to cooperate with the new rules.