Ranchi is witnessing a noticeable increase in dog bite cases as temperatures climb, prompting health officials and animal welfare experts to urge residents to take precautions and avoid conflicts with stray animals.
Surge in Cases at Sadar Hospital
At Sadar hospital alone, more than 100 dog bite cases are being reported daily. Ranchi civil surgeon Dr. Prabhat Kumar stated that the hospital administers anti-rabies vaccines to over 250 people each day. “In most cases, four doses of anti-rabies vaccine are given. If the bite is severe, a fifth dose is administered on the 90th day,” he explained.
Immediate First Aid Crucial
Dr. Kumar emphasized that immediate first aid can significantly reduce the risk of infection. “The first thing a person should do after a dog bite is wash the wound thoroughly with soap and running water. It helps clean bacteria and saliva from the skin. People should also avoid exposing open wounds. Rabies has a 100% fatality rate once symptoms appear, which is why timely treatment is critical,” he stressed.
Rims Reports Slight Increase
Shishir Kumar, public relations officer at Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (Rims), said they have also observed a slight uptick in dog bite cases recently. “Around 60-65 cases were reported last week, which is marginally higher than usual,” he noted.
Heat Triggers Aggression in Dogs
Veterinary experts attribute the rise in bites to rising temperatures, which make dogs irritable. Shivanand Kanshi, a veterinarian with the animal husbandry department, explained that dehydration, hunger, and lack of shelter often trigger aggressive behavior among dogs. “During summer, stray dogs face a food and water crisis. Heat stress can make them aggressive. People should avoid approaching dogs in groups and maintain distance if they appear disturbed. Providing food, water, and shaded spaces can reduce aggression,” Kanshi advised.
Civic Body Takes Action
To address the issue, the Ranchi Municipal Corporation has identified 57 locations across the city for dog feeding stalls, with three already operational in wards 38 and 39. Officials said the designated feeding points aim to reduce random feeding and help animals access food in fixed locations. The civic body is also preparing to roll out a dog sterilization programme. Officials added that sterilized dogs that continue to show aggressive behavior may be shifted to shelters for monitoring and care.
