Apr 03, Kathmandu - Chitwan's Kalika Municipality has successfully carried out a permanent sterilization and rabies vaccination campaign targeting community dogs and cats to prevent the spread of rabies. Officials emphasized that since these animals often come into contact with wildlife, the risk of disease transmission is high.

Dr. Raju Prasad Nepane, the municipality’s veterinarian, stated that the program aligns with the Nepal government’s goal to control rabies. The campaign involved reaching out to all wards of the municipality, collecting stray dogs and cats, and administering sterilization and rabies vaccinations.

From Chaitra 12 to 14, a total of 272 dogs and 2 cats were sterilized as part of this initiative. “This program was conducted last year as well, and to continue the efforts in controlling community dogs and cats more effectively, we are running the campaign again this year,” Dr. Nepane explained.

Nepal aims to eliminate human deaths caused by rabies by 2030, under the ‘Animal Birth Control’ program. Last year, approximately 150 dogs and cats were sterilized under this initiative.

Post-surgery health checks and necessary treatments were also provided to ensure the animals' well-being, Dr. Nepane added.