StrayDogs – Rising Dog Bite Cases Raise Public Health Concerns in Punjab
StrayDogs – A sharp rise in dog bite incidents across Punjab has emerged as a serious public health concern, according to official data presented to the Lahore High Court. The figures, covering the period from January 2024 to March 2026, point to a sustained increase in such cases, highlighting the growing challenge faced by authorities in controlling stray animal populations.
Significant Increase in Reported Incidents
Data submitted by the provincial health and population department shows that 232,704 dog bite cases were recorded in 2024. The situation worsened in 2025, with the number climbing to 243,299. The trend has continued into 2026, with 38,586 incidents reported in just the first three months of the year.
These numbers reflect a persistent issue rather than a temporary spike, suggesting that current measures may not be sufficient to curb the problem effectively.
Districts with the Highest Cases
Several districts have reported particularly high numbers of dog bite incidents. Dera Ghazi Khan recorded the highest figure at 34,293 cases, followed closely by Rahim Yar Khan with 33,122 and Faisalabad with 32,853.
Other districts such as Muzaffargarh, Rajanpur, and Rawalpindi have also reported tens of thousands of cases, indicating that the issue is widespread and not limited to a specific region.
In Lahore, the provincial capital, 18,514 cases were documented. Meanwhile, cities including Gujranwala, Kasur, and Mianwali each reported more than 19,000 incidents, further underlining the scale of the challenge.
Medical Response and Vaccine Availability
Health authorities have stated that they are actively managing the situation by ensuring access to treatment and anti-rabies vaccines. According to the data, 17,079 vaccine vials are currently available in provincial reserves, with an additional 52,640 distributed across various districts.
To maintain preparedness, healthcare facilities have been assigned minimum stock requirements. District hospitals are required to keep at least 100 vials, while tehsil-level hospitals must maintain 50. Rural health centres are expected to have a minimum of 20 vials available at all times.
Officials have assured the court that vaccine supplies remain adequate and that patients are receiving timely medical care.
Legal Challenge and Court Proceedings
The report was submitted in response to a petition filed by the Young Doctors Association, which raised concerns about the government’s ability to control the increasing number of stray dog attacks.
After reviewing the submitted data, Justice Khalid Ishaq adjourned the hearing until May 4, allowing additional time for further arguments and examination of the situation.
Concerns Over Animal Control Measures
In a related matter, the Lahore High Court has also sought written assurances from the Punjab government, the Livestock Department, and the Lahore Waste Management Company regarding the implementation of the Punjab Animal (Dogs) Birth Control Policy 2021.
The court’s directive follows reports of a controversial operation in Johar Town, where stray dogs were reportedly killed using firearms. The incident sparked concern due to its impact on public safety and raised questions about the methods being used for animal control.
Legal representatives argued that such actions created panic among residents and were inconsistent with earlier commitments made by authorities.
Court Seeks Policy Enforcement Commitment
Justice Hassan Nawaz Makhdoom has instructed the concerned departments to formally commit to enforcing the birth control policy as a humane and sustainable solution. The next hearing in this matter is scheduled for April 13.
The developments highlight the urgent need for coordinated efforts between health services, municipal authorities, and animal welfare departments to address the issue in a structured and effective manner.