By Nyein Nyein

THE Yangon City Development Committee will spend K17 million to deal with the problem of stray dogs in Yangon Region, said U Min Aung, the head of the Veterinary and Slaughter House Department of the YCDC.

“We allocate a budget for stray dogs every year. This year, K17.8 million will be disbursed,” he said during a press conference on YCDC’s performance, held on 1 July at the Yangon City Hall.

Over 7,000 pet dogs are registered in Yangon Region, while the region’s stray dog population is estimated at about 150,000, according to the YCDC.

“There are six options to deal with the increasing stray dog population in Yangon Region — sheltering, killing, vaccinating, spaying, neutering, and non-governmental rescue actions and programs,” said Daw Nan Su Shwe Sin, a YCDC member. The YCDC tackles the stray problem using the option decided upon by each township, she said.

“Our Veterinary Department is dealing with stray problems as per the request of the public in each township,” she added. Last May, about 7,000 stray dogs in some townships were sent to shelters, according to the YCDC.

“Whatever options are used, I wish the authorities deal with the stray dog problem in a systematic way. There are many stray dogs roaming freely in South Dagon Township, and this is a serious concern for the public,” said a resident of 55 ward in South Dagon Myothit Township. (Translated by Ei Myat Mon)