CMC capturing 'cared for' dogs saying they're rabid: Animal Welfare Trust

The Animal Welfare Trust (AWT) alleged that the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) is picking up dogs cared for by people, saying they are rabid.

In addition, the Trust claims that this creates a complete breakdown of the CatchNeuter-Vaccinate-Release (CNVR) plan that has thus far been making significant progress.

Also, the recent Cabinet approval to build shelters for street dogs, was criticised, as there were incidents proving such decisions wrong. Earlier, the government-run shelter for dogs in Anuradhapura was forced to close down, due to the deplorable conditions of hygiene for the animals in the shelter and the people in the vicinity.

“The authorities have always been lacking the proficiency to run shelters, as it requires proper management in operation and fundraising. Therefore, strong legal systems and standards to support CNVR programmes should be in place,” said a AWT spokesman.

According to available data, there are 50,000 stray dogs in Sri Lanka and the Health Ministry spends Rs 400 million to treat 300,000 dog-bite victims, annually. Also, Rs 200 million is spent to sterilise dogs and Rs 30 million for anti-rabies vaccines.

The CMC said there are no cases where dogs cared for by people are taken into custody for treatment. “There are dogs out in the street, which are fed by people. But that does not mean they are properly taken care of and are free of rabies. So, in case, such dogs are found to be rabid, they are picked by the authority,” said Chief CMC Veterinary Surgeon, Dr I.V.P. Dharmawardane.

He also reiterated that the CNVR plan was a success, as the dog population has been reduced by a significant 50%, consequent to the implementation of the programme.

At present, the local authority has to maintain details regarding the number of dogs in the area and, if they found any complaints of dog attacks, they can keep the dogs in custody for observation. They also have the authority to kill the dogs, if found incurable.