PMC Clarifies Only Rabid or Aggressive Stray Dogs Will Be Captured in Pune

Pune, 25th May 2026: Amid growing complaints from citizens over the increasing number of stray dogs in the city, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has clarified that only dogs showing signs of rabies, severe illness or aggressive behaviour posing a direct threat to people will be captured and subjected to further action as per rules. Healthy stray dogs will not be killed, civic officials said.

PMC’s Health Department stated that the civic body is following the Animal Welfare Board of India’s 2023 guidelines while addressing stray dog-related complaints.

Health Officer Dr Sarika Bhosale-Funde said trained teams and veterinarians inspect dogs displaying unusual behaviour before any decision is taken.

“Dogs showing symptoms of rabies, serious illness or violent behaviour are identified and examined by veterinary experts. Action is taken only after a proper medical assessment,” she said.

According to PMC officials, symptoms of rabies include excessive drooling, unusual aggression and refusal to drink water. Suspected dogs are kept in an isolation ward for 10 days for observation.

“If rabies is confirmed and treatment is not possible, the dog is euthanised as per the prescribed procedure. However, dogs suffering from other illnesses are treated and released only after recovery,” officials said.

PMC clarified that all treated dogs are sterilised and vaccinated before being released back into their original area.

The civic body has also appealed to citizens to inform authorities if they notice dogs displaying abnormal behaviour in their neighbourhoods.
Meanwhile, PMC data shows a decline in rabies cases among stray dogs in the city due to vaccination drives and public awareness campaigns.

According to official figures, 15 rabies cases among stray dogs were reported in 2024, which dropped to three in 2025. In 2026, only two cases have been reported till April. Suspected rabies cases, which stood at 53 in 2024, have reduced to zero so far this year.

PMC officials said rabies is a completely preventable disease and urged citizens to immediately take free anti-rabies vaccination at government hospitals in case of dog bites.

Citizens can report suspected rabid stray dogs to PMC’s helpline number: 1800-103-0222.