Sterilization of stray dogs drags on; started only in two places in two months

KOTTAYAM: Although stray dog ​​attacks remain rampant in the state, the sterilization project was restarted under the revised criteria only in Kannur and Ernakulam Corporation limits in the last two months.

Owing to the lack of facilities, the project was stopped in Kollam due to the complaints of animal lovers. It is alleged that the lapses on the part of officials in making funds available for the project is causing a delay in other local bodies. Sterilization of a dog costs Rs 1500, including labour and medicine. Most of the local bodies are not able to find enough space to accommodate the dogs.

The state government had issued revised guidelines two months ago specifying the facilities for sterilization as per the norms of the Central Animal Welfare Board. The guidelines state that at least 20 cents of land are required for the housing of stray dogs. It also stated that modern facilities are required to sterilize the dogs. More than one and a half lakh people were bitten by stray dogs even after the issuance of the guideline.

Reasons for delay

• Lapses on part of officials in preparing the plan and making funds available
• Delay in finding land and arranging facilities
• Delay in procedures like tender, contract etc
• Shortage of dog catchers and delay in providing training

Criteria for sterilization

• At least 20 cents of land for shelters
• AC operation theatre, pre and post-operation care unit
• 50 cages, store, CCTV, kitchen
• A veterinary surgeon, 4 attendants, a theatre assistant and a cleaning labourer
• After surgery, male dogs should be housed for four days and female dogs for five days