Around 30% of road accidents in Sri Lanka are caused by dogs, according to Dr. Chamith Nanayakkara, founder of the Association of Veterinarians for Humane Management of Animal Population.
Speaking at a media briefing in Colombo, Dr. Nanayakkara said the country spends nearly Rs. 1 billion annually on anti-rabies vaccinations following dog bites, while accidents involving stray dogs also impose a significant economic burden.
He attributed the growing street dog population largely to irresponsible human behaviour, including abandoning pets and improper disposal of garbage, which provides food sources that encourage the animals to reproduce.
Dr. Nanayakkara expressed support for a proposed new law aimed at addressing the issue through long-term measures.
Under the proposed legislation, pet owners would be required to register their dogs with the relevant Pradeshiya Sabha, while local authorities would be given responsibility for unowned and stray dogs in their areas.
The proposed law would also provide for government-funded vaccination and sterilisation programmes for stray dogs.
Dr. Nanayakkara described the proposed legislation as a positive step that could improve public safety, reduce economic costs and promote animal welfare.
