Sati Ngulukun, the director of Research at the National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom, Plateau, has raised concern over the growing risk posed by unvaccinated stray dogs roaming freely in Nigerian communities, warning that the trend could fuel the spread of rabies and other zoonotic diseases.

Mr Ngulukun, a veterinary expert, said on Sunday in Abuja, that the presence of unvaccinated dogs in public spaces remained a major public health risk requiring urgent attention.

He noted that dogs were responsible for the vast majority of human rabies cases, stressing that the disease, though preventable, remained almost always fatal once clinical symptoms appeared.

Mr Ngulukun explained that stray dogs, particularly those without vaccination or proper care, could serve as reservoirs for the rabies virus, transmitting it to humans through bites, scratches, or contact with infected saliva.

The expert warned that children were especially vulnerable due to their frequent interaction with animals and their often being unaware of the risks associated with dog bites. According to him, the increasing number of free-roaming dogs also heightens the likelihood of dog attacks, as such animals may become aggressive in search of food or when threatened.

Mr Ngulukun said that poor control of stray dog populations undermined national and global efforts to eliminate rabies. He called for coordinated action involving veterinary authorities, public health institutions, and community stakeholders to address the challenge.

Regarding preventive measures, he called on pet owners to adopt responsible animal husbandry practices, including routine rabies vaccination for dogs. He also urged households to ensure that pets are properly confined to fenced premises or controlled environments to prevent them from roaming freely.

“Keeping dogs within secure environments and ensuring they receive regular veterinary care are critical steps in protecting both animal and human health,” he said.

The researcher highlighted the importance of proper identification and monitoring of domestic animals, noting that this would aid disease surveillance and response during outbreaks. He further cautioned against abandoning pets, describing it as a key driver of the growing stray dog population in many communities.

Mr Ngulukun advised members of the public to promptly report cases of dog bites or unusual animal behaviour, such as aggression or excessive salivation, to veterinary or health authorities. He reiterated that tackling rabies required a ”One Health” approach, integrating efforts across human, animal, and environmental health sectors.

The expert called for increased awareness campaigns, mass dog vaccination programmes, and stronger enforcement of animal control regulations to safeguard communities.

(NAN)