Ongwediva urges responsible dog ownership amid rising attacks by strays

The Ongwediva Town Council has launched an educational campaign to improve awareness among dog owners and residents about responsible dog handling and pet welfare, following a noticeable increase in dog-related incidents across the town.The campaign seeks to ensure the safety of both people and animals by clarifying the obligations of dog owners, residents and visitors, said council spokesperson Ottilie Shingenge.Shingenge said dog owners are reminded that animal welfare matters are governed by the Animals Protection Amendment Act 7 of 1972 and enforced largely by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA).In a statement on Tuesday, council issued a stern warning to dog owners, reminding them to properly care for, supervise and secure their pets to prevent harm to residents or face legal action.Shingenge stressed that unleashed or unsupervised dogs can pose dangers to children, elders and community members at large.“Ensuring the safety and well-being of all community members is our top priority,” the council emphasised.Take responsibility Shingenge explained to Namibian Sun on Wednesday that the residents of the town feel unsafe as stray dogs roam the street and sometimes attack people. Three people were reportedly bitten by dogs within in one week. More than 10 cases have been recorded in the past five years, with some victims sustaining serious injuries. Residents are urged to take responsibility for their dogs to help maintain a safe, harmonious and friendly environment for all.Clear rulesShingenge said owners are required to keep their dogs within secured yards and display clear signage if dogs are present. They must also ensure their pets are vaccinated and kept under control when on a leash and that waste is removed from public areas.“Failure to comply with these requirements may lead to legal consequences, including liability for injuries or damages, possible removal of the pet, and other enforcement measures under local laws,” she said.“All dogs over three months old must be registered with the council. Registration requires an application form, accompanied by certified copies of the owner’s ID, and is renewed annually by 31 March. Licensing fees may vary depending on the dog’s breed and sex,” Shingenge explained. The council also highlighted rules around putting down dogs, which may be carried out by the council, the owner or a police officer if the dog causes harm or attacks someone. Several prohibitions are in place, such as leaving gates open, letting dogs roam streets, or inciting dogs to attack people or animals.Offences are dealt with progressively: a first incident results in a verbal warning, a second in a written warning, and a third may lead to fines or the dog being put down.

Ongwediva urges responsible dog ownership amid rising attacks by strays

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-18

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Ongwediva urges responsible dog ownership amid rising attacks by strays

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-18

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