By Norbert Mao
The Uganda Veterinary Association, a member organization that brings together all veterinarians in Uganda, has condemned the mass poisoning of stray dogs by local authorities in Amuru district saying it’s a significant animal cruelty issue.
Last week, the district authority ordered for the mass poisoning of stray dogs following the death of two children after being bitten by rabies dog from Okidi parish in Atiak Sub County.
Dr. David Akashaba, the President of the Uganda Veterinary Association, described the mass poisoning of the stray dogs as inhumane, illegal, and extremely dangerous, not only to the stray dogs but as well to the human and the environment.
Dr. Akashaba warned that the chemicals used in such poisoning exercise are highly toxic and could endanger human life if substances seep into soil, water sources, and when expose to children and the residents causing life-threatening health risks.
He further added that poisoning dogs does not solve the problem of stray dog populations, calling it a short-term and harmful approach that ignores scientific and humane solutions such as vaccination, sterilization, responsible breeding, proper feeding, and secure sheltering of pets.
