Residents in Masaka City have raised concerns over the increasing number of stray dogs roaming different parts of the city, saying the situation has become a serious threat to public safety.
The residents say their fears have been worsened by the shortage of anti-rabies drugs at Masaka Regional Referral Hospital, yet treatment for dog bite victims is costly and unaffordable for many families.
The concerns were raised during a recent public dialogue organized by Masaka Regional Referral Hospital management to collect views from patients and members of the public who access services at the facility.
During the meeting, several residents expressed frustration over what they described as the growing danger posed by stray dogs in the city. Some health workers also acknowledged that cases of dog bites have increased in recent months, putting pressure on the already limited medical supplies.
“We are living in fear because these dogs move freely in communities, and some children are attacked on their way to school. The situation becomes worse when victims fail to access anti-rabies treatment at the hospital,” said Musa Ssekatawa, one of the residents.
The Veterinary Officer for Nyendo-Mukungwe Division, Peter Ssennabulya, acknowledged the growing concern and said city authorities have plans to reduce the number of stray dogs.
However, he noted that the ongoing rainy season has made the operation difficult.
“We have an operation in place to deal with stray dogs, but carrying it out during heavy rains can put people’s safety at risk. We are therefore proceeding carefully while planning the exercise,” Ssennabulya explained.
He warned dog owners against allowing their animals to roam freely, saying the law holds owners responsible for pets that threaten public safety.
“If you own a dog, you must take responsibility for it. People should not keep dogs they cannot properly control or manage, as this exposes the community to danger,” he added.
Ssennabulya also urged residents to vaccinate and properly restrain their dogs to reduce the spread of rabies and ease pressure on health facilities already struggling with limited medical supplies.
Health officials say the rising cases of dog bites continue to strain health services, with residents now calling on city authorities to urgently address the stray dog problem before more lives are put at risk.