Kochi corporation will soon commence work on the proposed dog shelter at Brahmapuram. The local body has identified 4.5 acres of land for the facility, with the first phase covering one acre to provide shelter for 1,000 dogs.
Land Development and Tenders
Tenders for developing the land will be issued shortly, as the model code of conduct was lifted on Wednesday. "We conducted preliminary studies for setting up the dog shelter. The land identified is uneven. First, we will have to develop the land," said Seena Gokulan, chairperson of the health standing committee of Kochi corporation.
Facilities in the Shelter
The corporation has prepared a preliminary plan for the shelter, which will include an open space for dogs to walk, a kitchen for food preparation, a clinic for treatment, and quarters for employees. "We will soon invite design models from the public. Selected models will be discussed by experts and corporation authorities before finalization," an official associated with the project stated.
One of the major challenges is the lack of existing models. "No other local bodies have set up dog shelters. So, we will have to work hard to prepare a flawless plan," the official added.
Current Animal Birth Control Facility
Currently, an animal birth control (ABC) facility for sterilizing stray dogs operates at Brahmapuram. However, staff shortages are crippling its functioning. There is only one veterinary doctor, two dog catchers, and two veterinary nurses to catch and sterilize stray dogs. The dogs caught for sterilization are also vaccinated. A massive vaccination drive will be conducted every November, officials said.
