There are 21,856 stray dogs in the Capital, according to the first census of stray dogs conducted by Kathmandu Metropolitan City with supports from Humane Society International and The Jane Goodall Institute. 

The census has put the number of female stray dogs at 7,431 and 1,967 of them are nurturing puppies. Fewer number of female dogs compared to their male counterparts means the authorities could conduct its dog sterilisation plan more efficiently.  The KMC plans to spay adult female dogs as a measure to minimise the number of stray canines in the Capital.

Sneha Shrestha, who operates an animal shelter, said since a female dog could give birth to 12 puppies in a season, the stray dog population is ever increasing. 

Chief and Executive Officer of KMC Rudra Singh Tamang said the KMC has allocated Rs 35 million for its dog management campaign dubbed Manumitra. 

Growing number of streets dogs in Kathmandu has  posed a threat to public health. According to a report by the Department of Health Services, nearly 2,000 people are bitten by dogs in Kathmandu in a year.  

Besides, dog’s excrement is also known to harbour germs that could cause intestinal illness and serious kidney 

disorders in humans. (PR)