VANESSA A
Residents of Mabare Cell in Rutugunda Parish, Kirima Subcounty, Kanungu District, have raised serious concerns over the increasing number of dogs left to roam freely, which has resulted in multiple dog bite incidents and fear among community members.
According to reports, at least three residents in the area have continuously failed to restrain their dogs, allowing them to move around unchecked. These dogs often join others from neighboring cells, creating chaos and sometimes attacking both people and domestic animals.
Speaking to our reporter, the LC1 Chairperson of Mabare Cell, David Turyomurugyendo, confirmed that stray and untied dogs have become a major problem in the community. He said the animals frequently scare women and children and sometimes bite residents, leading to expensive medical treatments.
Turyomurugyendo also expressed disappointment that some dog owners have ignored a subcounty directive to have the dogs killed, choosing instead to hide them. Only one dog has reportedly been eliminated so far.
The LC2 Chairperson of Rutugunda Parish, David Turyagyenda, echoed these concerns, noting that most of the roaming dogs are not vaccinated. He warned that the animals sometimes mix with wild dogs, posing a serious threat to public safety.
The LC3 Chairperson of Kirima Subcounty, David Kamahanga, confirmed that his office had received similar complaints from Rutugunda Parish leaders. He emphasized that there are existing bylaws requiring all dog owners to restrain and vaccinate their animals.
Kamahanga urged residents to cooperate with subcounty veterinary officers to vaccinate their dogs and eliminate those that have turned wild.
He concluded by reminding the public that community safety depends on responsible pet ownership and adherence to local laws.
