Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi

Udupi, Nov 5: The Udupi City Municipality has issued a public advisory urging citizens not to feed stray dogs in unauthorized public areas such as roads, drains, school premises, crowded zones, and bus stands. The move comes following several complaints from the public regarding the feeding of stray dogs in various parts of the city.

To regulate the practice, the municipality has identified specific locations where food can be offered to stray dogs in a lawful and organized manner. These include behind Beedinagudde Rudrabhoomi, behind Adi Udupi market, opposite Indrali Rudrabhoomi, near Parkala Welcome Arch, opposite Nittur sewage treatment plant, below the Bharatiya Vikas Trust on Perampalli Main Road, near Raj Fish Mill, near the helipad on Adi Udupi–Malpe Road, turn towards Narayana Nagar in Kakkunje, and near Vijaya Veer Sangha on the Diana Road route in Bailur.

Those wishing to feed stray dogs at other locations must submit a written request to the municipality. Feeding will only be permitted with official authorization and an identity card. The feeders will also bear full responsibility for ensuring that the dogs are vaccinated against rabies and sterilized as part of their obligation.

Municipal commissioner Mahantesh Hangargi further cautioned that dog owners should not abandon their pets or puppies in public spaces, as such actions contribute to the rising stray population. Pet owners are also required to ensure rabies vaccination, sterilization, and attach collars to their dogs.

Strict legal action will be taken against anyone found abandoning dogs or puppies in public areas, the commissioner warned.