30-04-2025
Study puts M'luru dog popn at 53k, sterilisation at 46%
1
2
Mangaluru: A recent survey conducted across 60 wards under the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) estimated the population of free-roaming dogs at 53,384 with a confidence range between 43,292 and 63,476 dogs.
The survey, called DogPop, was carried out by Worldwide Veterinary Service (WVS) in collaboration with Animal Care Trust (ACT) and MCC volunteers. The animal husbandry and veterinary services department DK and the society for prevention of cruelty to animals, DK, Mangaluru, also took part in the survey.
ACT trustee Suma Nayak noted that the growing number of complaints, especially concerning dog bites and the spread of zoonotic diseases, prompted authorities to take urgent action. She stressed that vaccination against rabies and sterilisation for birth control are key to addressing this concern. "A few years ago, the effects of a Dog Population Management (DPM) programme become visible, making regular surveys essential to track progress," she noted.
The
DogPop survey
, conducted from Feb 11 to 13, was designed to establish a baseline for monitoring DPM indicators. Volunteers recorded dog sightings using a mobile app. The survey found an average of five dogs for every kilometre. The overall sterilisation coverage across the city stood at 46%. Ward 28 (Mannagudda) had the highest sterilisation rate at 76%, while Ward 59 (Jeppu) had the lowest at just four percent. The human-to-dog ratio in the city is seven dogs for every 100 people.
Most adult dogs appeared healthy and had an ideal body condition. However, some were seen with skin diseases or other health concerns. Sterilised dogs were identified by a V-shaped notch in their ears, and data showed that more male dogs were sterilised than females, the survey noted.
"The results offer critical data to help MCC and its partners evaluate the effectiveness of ongoing dog population management efforts and plan future interventions. Sterilisation of strays is taking place aggressively by MCC with ACT. The effect is already seen, with fewer pups on the roads. Pet owners must take responsibility for their sterilisation, and must not abandon their pets or its offsprings. MCC must make pet dog sterilisation compulsory," said Suma.
