By Godfrey Muhumuza
Stray dogs have invaded several villages in the Kikuube district, attacking and killing domestic animals. According to livestock farmers, eight sheep and two goats have been attacked and killed by these stray dogs within just one week. The most affected villages are Nyairongo, Kyarushesha, and Kaseeta, which are located in Kyangwali and Kabwoya sub-counties.
Farmers in these areas report that the dogs have become a significant threat not only to their livestock but also to human safety. They have noted the presence of these stray dogs over the past two weeks, during which time the animals have continued to attack and kill their livestock.
Peter Kyomukama, a resident of Kyarushesha village, shared that on Sunday night, stray dogs raided his farm, killing two sheep and critically injuring four others. Christine Nayebare, a goat farmer in Nyairongo village, recounted that her two goats were killed by stray dogs last week. She emphasized that residents are also at risk of being attacked by these dogs.
Stephen Bizimungu, another resident, mentioned that he lost two sheep to stray dogs and urged dog owners in the area to ensure their pets are vaccinated. Desire Nkuruzinza, the LC1 Chairperson of Nyairongo village, reported that attacks by stray dogs on domestic animals have become alarmingly frequent. He noted that many dogs in the area are unvaccinated, increasing the risk of rabies spreading in the community.
Nkuruzinza has called upon the Kikuube District Veterinary Department to intervene promptly and address the issue of stray dogs in the area. When contacted, Barnabas Ntume, the Senior Production Officer for Kikuube District, stated that he had not been informed about the attacks on livestock by stray dogs but promised to investigate the matter.
In August 2021, authorities in Kagadi Town Council killed 32 stray dogs following public outcry.
