LUCKNOW, Uttar Pradesh—The vast majority of street dogs in Lucknow (84%) have been sterilized, a recent survey conducted by Humane World for Animals India (formerly called Humane Society International/India) reveals. The charity has sterilized and rabies-vaccinated more than 89,000 dogs across the city since 2019, in partnership with the Lucknow Municipal Corporation.
This achievement surpasses the World Health Organization’s recommended benchmark threshold of 70% for effective street dog population and rabies control.
Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is a sprawling metropolis and one of India’s fastest-growing urban centers. It is also home to tens of thousands of dogs living on the streets who are highly vulnerable to injuries caused by vehicular accidents, malnutrition and infectious disease.
The goal of the city’s first large-scale Animal Birth Control initiative was to improve animal welfare and promote harmonious co-existence between Lucknow’s human and canine residents. The program has successfully covered eight zones over the past six years, including Gomtinagar, Indiranagar, Jankipuram and Hazratganj.
Dr. Piyush Patel, director of companion animals and engagement at Humane World for Animals India, said: “A clear testament to our program’s reach is the growing number of street dogs in Lucknow with an ear-notch—a visible sign that they have been sterilized and vaccinated. This latest milestone reflects the success of our compassionate, high-quality, high-volume approach to humane street dog management, combined with community engagement.”
Lucknow’s progress stands out among major Indian cities. “Lucknow is an aspiring example for large Indian cities of what can be achieved when rapid, large-scale ABC programs are consistently implemented. While Mumbai, Jaipur and Bangalore have also had high coverage, it is the time that it took Lucknow that is the significant factor here.” states Dr. Patel.
The program’s consistent implementation demonstrates its potential to be scaled and sustained, even in a rapidly urbanizing city. A Dr. Arvind Rao, additional municipal commissioner, LMC emphasized, “Achieving and maintaining high sterilization and vaccination rates in a city of this size proves that humane and effective street dog management is possible, despite the challenges of an expanding urban landscape.”
Looking ahead, Humane World for Animals India and the LMC remain committed to their goal of reaching 90% street dog sterilization and vaccination coverage by the end of 2025.
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