Dibrugarh vaccinates 150 stray dogs in third citywide anti-rabies drive

Dibrugarh: In a joint effort with the district veterinary department and the NGO Animal Welfare People, Dibrugarh Municipal Corporation conducted a major anti-rabies vaccination drive for the city’s stray dog population on Thursday.The initiative, which successfully immunised approximately 150 animals, marks the third such campaign launched since mid-August.The drive is a key component of a sustained effort to control the spread of the deadly rabies virus, which poses a significant threat to both animal and human health. Teams of veterinarians and volunteers worked across designated zones to humanely capture, vaccinate, and release the stray dogs back to their territories.Dibrugarh deputy mayor Ujjal Phukon emphasised the dual benefit of the programme, stating it was crucial for creating a safer environment for all residents. He confirmed that the vaccination drives are not a one-off event but part of a continuing strategy.“The initiative was aimed at safeguarding animal health, preventing the spread of rabies, and ensuring better public health and safety for residents. This was the third such vaccination drive in Dibrugarh since August 14 and it will continue,” Phukon said.Local animal welfare activists praised the collaborative model and stressed the importance of consistent, large-scale efforts. “Vaccinating stray dogs is the most effective and humane method of controlling rabies. Each dog we protect creates a barrier against this fatal disease, making the entire community safer,” a volunteer from Animal Welfare People said.The corporation has urged citizens to support the ongoing initiative by reporting stray dog populations in their areas to facilitate future drives, promoting a harmonious and healthy coexistence between the people and animals of Dibrugarh.