Fear grips Bulawayo

Growing fear has gripped Bulawayo residents as stray dogs continue to roam the streets, attacking people and spreading panic across several suburbs.

According to city health authorities, 425 dog bite cases were recorded between January and the end of July this year, with confirmed rabies infections claiming one life. Evening walks, once a source of relaxation, have now become risky in many neighbourhoods.

Patrick Moyo, a Khumalo resident, recalled being attacked while walking home from work.

"A stray dog came out of nowhere and bit me on the leg. I managed to chase it away, but the pain was terrible. I went to the hospital for treatment, and luckily I didn't suffer serious injuries," he said.

In Killarney, Patience Ngulube shared a similar experience.

"I was going to the shops when a dog suddenly jumped on me and bit my arm. People nearby came to help, and I went for treatment. I was told I was lucky there were no serious infections," she said.

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has warned that most of Bulawayo's stray dogs are unvaccinated, creating a high risk of rabies transmission.

Inspector Dumisani Sibanda from the SPCA described the city as one of Zimbabwe's rabies hotspots, with children being the most affected.

"Almost three-quarters of dogs in Bulawayo are not vaccinated and may carry rabies. Most victims are children aged 5 to 14, who make up about 80 percent of cases," said Sibanda.

He added that the SPCA is working with the Bulawayo City Council (BCC) to capture and vaccinate stray dogs.

"Traps are being made for stray dogs so they can be vaccinated once caught," he said, urging residents to ensure their pets are vaccinated from three months of age and properly licensed.

The City Council has since begun developing a new policy to regulate dog breeding and reduce the number of dangerous dogs. In July, the Council enforced a Dog Tie-Up Order, leading to 79 dogs being put down. Following the operation, dog bite cases dropped from 71 in July to 62 in August, although the move drew mixed reactions from residents.

Ward 25 Councillor Aleck Ndlovu criticised the method used during the culling exercise.

"Council should consider using tranquilizers. So far, 79 dogs have been killed during the 10-day tie-up order," said Ndlovu.

However, Ward 2 Councillor Adrian Moyo defended the move, saying the city had no choice.

"Residents who fail to care for their dogs are the cause of this problem. The situation can spread rabies, so the tie-up order was necessary," said Moyo.

He added that the city would continue to advocate for the ban on dangerous or vicious dog breeds.

Local dog breeder Nhlanhla Bahlangene Dube welcomed the measures, describing them as a step toward responsible dog ownership and public safety.

"The council is doing a good thing in controlling the dog population. Dogs must be kept safely, walked on a leash, and properly trained," said Dube.

He emphasized that while dogs are loyal protectors and family companions, they require proper care.

"Dogs should be fed, dewormed, and vaccinated. You should only keep a dog you can afford to feed well," he said.

Dube concluded that effective dog control benefits both animals and the public.

"When dogs are vaccinated and properly kept, they don't spread diseases or cause harm. It's safer for everyone," he added.

Authorities have since urged residents to report all dog bite cases, ensure their pets are vaccinated, and confine them within secure premises to help curb the ongoing menace.