Kohima officials and stakeholders discuss measures to address dog attacks, improve dog impounding operations, strengthen vaccination and promote responsible pet ownership.
DIMAPUR — A meeting to deliberate on the growing concern over dog attacks, particularly those involving unleashed and aggressive dogs in Kohima town, was held at the official chamber of the deputy commissioner on September 24.
According to a DIPR report, the meeting, chaired by Deputy Commissioner B Henok Buchem, brought together officials and representatives of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), Kohima Municipal Council (KMC), Police, Veterinary & Animal Husbandry department and other concerned stakeholders.
KMC Chief Executive Officer Alemyapang Longchar briefed the meeting on preparations for the relocated dog shelter at Lerie colony, shifted from the KMC Chaü parking area.
He said the shelter is expected to become functional by October 20.
According to Longchar, Lerie was considered a more suitable location as it is relatively on the outskirts of the town and offers more space for the shelter.
The meeting also discussed difficulties encountered during the impounding of unleashed dogs from public spaces.
The use of body cameras during such operations was suggested to ensure transparency and accountability, while advance coordination with the Police was also proposed.
The district administration assured necessary support to personnel involved in the operations.
Another key issue was the need to attach a veterinary doctor to the KMC to provide veterinary services and technical support.
It was decided that the matter would be taken up with the Veterinary & Animal Husbandry department.
On preventive measures, the meeting decided that the district administration would take necessary administrative measures and issue appropriate orders, while the KMC, in convergence with the V&AH department, would work towards developing a legislative framework to regulate dog ownership and related matters.
The chief veterinary officer, in collaboration with the KMC, will also undertake ward-wise vaccination of dogs and issue vaccination certificates on the theme “My Dog, My Responsibility.”
The initiative is intended to promote responsible dog ownership and facilitate better monitoring of vaccinated dogs.
The meeting further stressed the importance of public awareness regarding responsible pet ownership, the applicable legal framework and the risks associated with leaving dogs unattended in public spaces.