Kerala, a state celebrated for its high literacy rates and advanced healthcare system, is currently grappling with a public health emergency that threatens both human and animal welfare. The sharp rise in stray dog populations and the corresponding increase in rabies cases have raised alarms across the state. According to the State Health Department, Kerala has witnessed over 316,000 dog bite incidents in 2024, compared to 135,000 in 2017, marking a disturbing rise of over 130% in just seven years. This surge in dog bite incidents is not just a public nuisance, but a clear indication of the growing rabies threat that Kerala now faces.

One of the most distressing aspects of this crisis is the tragic resurgence of rabies, a preventable viral disease. In May 2025, a 7-year-old girl in the Idukki district died of rabies despite receiving the anti-rabies vaccine post-bite. Her death, the third such fatality in a month, highlights the failure of the existing healthcare infrastructure and the urgent need for more effective vaccination and treatment programs. The alarming reality is that rabies, which was once considered under control in the state, has resurfaced with deadly consequences. In 2023, Kerala reported over 50 cases of rabies deaths, a stark reminder that the disease still poses a significant threat, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare may be limited.

The problem is further compounded by the ineffective and controversial methods used to control the stray dog population. Stray dogs, which are often seen roaming the streets, pose a dual threat: they not only increase the likelihood of bites and rabies transmission, but also contribute to a range of environmental and social problems. In 2024, the Kerala state government conducted a significant culling operation to curb the population of stray dogs. However, this strategy has been met with widespread criticism from animal rights groups, who argue that culling is inhumane and fails to address the core issue of population control. While culling might provide a short-term solution, it does nothing to prevent future generations of stray dogs from multiplying rapidly.

Data from the Kerala State Animal Husbandry Department reveals that the state's Animal Birth Control (ABC) programs have faced significant funding cuts in recent years. A Right to Information (RTI) query in 2023 revealed a steep decline in government grants for sterilization programs, down from Rs 15 crore in 2018 to just Rs 5 crore in 2023. These cuts in funding directly impact the number of stray dogs that can be sterilized, leading to a vicious cycle of overpopulation. With an estimated 2.5 million stray dogs in the state, a large portion of the population remains unchecked, further exacerbating the risk of dog bites and rabies transmission.

To address the crisis, Kerala needs a holistic approach that goes beyond culling and includes a comprehensive strategy focused on population control, vaccination, and public health education. The state must significantly increase funding for sterilization programs and ensure that these initiatives are properly managed and executed by local bodies. The Animal Birth Control program should be expanded to cover both urban and rural areas, with greater emphasis on community involvement to ensure sustainability. Moreover, Kerala must prioritize public awareness campaigns about the importance of rabies vaccination and the proper steps to take after a dog bite.

The healthcare system also needs an overhaul in its response to rabies treatment. While post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is available, accessibility in remote areas remains a challenge. A more efficient distribution system for rabies vaccines and prompt medical interventions could prevent fatalities in vulnerable populations. Additionally, the state government should collaborate with private veterinary services and animal welfare organizations to increase vaccination rates among stray dogs. The success of such initiatives can be seen in other states like Tamil Nadu, where innovative sterilization and vaccination programs have significantly reduced the stray dog population and the associated risks.

The challenge is clear: Kerala must move past outdated methods and invest in long-term, humane solutions to tackle the stray dog problem and prevent the spread of rabies. Through coordinated efforts across government, local communities, animal welfare organizations, and healthcare systems, Kerala can break the cycle of overpopulation, dog bites, and rabies. It is only with a comprehensive, multi-pronged strategy that Kerala can truly protect both its citizens and its animals, ensuring a safer and healthier future for all.