BCC launches dog control crackdown to curb rabies threat

Dalyn Chigwizura

BULAWAYO City Council (BCC) has announced that starting Monday, it will implement a “Tie Up Order” aimed at curbing the rising number of dog bites and addressing potential rabies outbreaks in the city.

In a statement yesterday, the city’s acting town clerk, Mr Makhosi Tshalebwa, said the order will be enforced from Monday until Thursday, during which time all dog owners are required to adhere to strict guidelines concerning the control and management of their pets.

“The City of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe Republic Police, Department of Veterinary’s Field Services and Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) will be enforcing a Tie Up Order as from Monday, 21 July 2025 to Thursday, 31 July 2025,” he said.

Mr Tshalebwa said residents are required to securely fence their premises, ensure that all dogs are vaccinated against rabies, and that the animals are licensed in accordance with the city’s bylaws.

“Dog owners and the general public are hereby advised that in terms of the Bulawayo Dog Licensing and Control, no person shall keep in the council area more than two dogs on any property measuring less than 2 000 square metres or more than four dogs in any property above 2 000 square metres,” he said

Mr Tshalebwa said unrestrained dogs found roaming the streets during the enforcement period will be considered a public health risk and will be put down on sight by city authorities, including municipal police and health officials.
“No person shall allow his dog or dogs to roam outside his premises without restraint. Dogs shall only be kept where the property is securely fenced or walled and gated. The public should note that a hedge is not permissible,” he said

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