UP Government Targets Stray Dog Attacks with New Guidelines

The Uttar Pradesh government has initiated a significant move to tackle the growing menace of stray dog bites by establishing new guidelines to manage aggressive stray dogs. According to Dr. Vijay Amritraj, Veterinary & Animal Welfare Officer at the Prayagraj Municipal Corporation, the recent regulations mandate that any dog that bites a human without provocation must be housed in an animal center for a period of 10 days.

In the event of an unprovoked dog bite, animals will be observed for 10 days, sterilized unless already done, tagged with a microchip, and subsequently released in their original locale. Dogs with a history of multiple unprovoked attacks will face lifelong residency in an animal facility unless they are adopted, with adopters committing to lifelong care and agreeing not to release the animals back onto the streets.

A three-member committee consisting of a veterinary expert, an animal behavior specialist, and a municipal official will evaluate each case to determine if bites were provoked. The panel will also intervene if provocation is detected, ensuring the dog receives training to remain calm, following directives aimed at reducing dog bite incidents issued by the Principal Secretary on September 10.

(With inputs from agencies.)