Paonta Sahib’s ABC drive sets a model benchmark

When many towns still grapple with the growing challenge of stray dog management, Paonta Sahib has shown that compassion and civic responsibility can go hand in hand. A six-day Animal Birth Control (ABC) campaign, organised jointly by the Paonta Sahib Municipal Council and the Sub-Divisional Veterinary Hospital, concluded successfully recently, marking a humane and scientifically guided effort to control the stray dog population.

The campaign, launched on October 1, by Paonta Sahib SDM Gunjeet Singh Cheema formed part of the Compassionate Community Initiative under the Yamuna Sharad Mahotsav-2025. It reflected the shared resolve of the local administration, veterinary department and animal welfare volunteers to ensure a balanced coexistence between humans and animals.

Implemented under the CNVR (Catch-Neuter-Vaccinate-Release) protocol, the campaign was conducted in full compliance with the Supreme Court guidelines. Over the six days, 124 stray dogs, 73 males and 51 females were successfully sterilised, vaccinated against rabies and treated for internal and external parasites.

The veterinary team also addressed special cases, three dogs were treated for Transmissible Venereal Tumour (TVT), while one underwent surgery for a cutaneous tumour. Each dog was released back into its original area after recovery, fitted with identification collars for easy recognition and monitoring. The SDM lauded the collective effort, emphasising that the initiative was not just about controlling numbers but about fostering empathy and responsibility within the community.