Residents of Hossana, a town in central Ethiopia, were compelled to kill hundreds of their dogs after three children died from rabies. Community groups affiliated with the local government issued orders for the cull, threatening fines and arrest for non-compliance, even for vaccinated animals. The directive followed the deaths of three children and the hospitalization of 80 other individuals due to dog bites, according to local mayor Samuel Shigute.
Eyewitness accounts shared with the BBC described reluctant owners resorting to hanging or beating their dogs to death. Graphic images, too sensitive to publish, reportedly show dogs hanging from trees and dead animals lying in fields with ropes around their necks. Mayor Shigute stated that the dog killings were "illegal" and not sanctioned by his administration.
One resident, who requested anonymity due to fear of repercussions, recounted being ordered to kill his dog. Unable to carry out the act himself, he handed over his pet, which had been vaccinated and lived with him for five years. The resident expressed deep sadness over the loss.
Local veterinarian Alaazar Ayele estimated that between 400 and 450 dogs were killed in a period of a few days, calling the methods used "immoral and unacceptable."
Approximately 70% of Hossana's estimated 10,000 dogs are guard dogs, and many had received rabies vaccinations, Mayor Shigute added.