Kerala Stray Dog Bite Cases Surge in 2025 Thiruvananthapuram Tops District List

Thiruvananthapuram Leads in Stray Dog Bite Incidents

Thiruvananthapuram has once again recorded the highest number of stray dog bite cases in the State, underscoring a growing public health and urban governance challenge. In 2025 , as many as 58,108 people sought treatment for stray dog bites at government hospitals in the district—an increase of about 8,000 cases compared to 2024. Health officials caution that the actual number may be even higher, as not all victims report to public health facilities.

Statewide Rise in Dog Bites and Rabies Deaths

The surge is not limited to the capital district. Kerala reported 3.69 lakh dog bite cases in 2025, up from 3.17 lakh the previous year, indicating a sharp statewide rise. The public health impact has been severe, with 33 rabies-related deaths reported in 2025, compared to 26 deaths in 2024. Thiruvananthapuram accounted for one rabies fatality during the year.

District-Wise Distribution of Cases

After Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam ranked second with 45,521 cases , followed by Thrissur (36,711) , Ernakulam (35,681) and Palakkad (35,170) . Wayanad recorded the lowest number at 6,702 cases . In terms of rabies mortality, Kollam and Alappuzha reported the highest number, with five deaths each , highlighting uneven disease outcomes across districts.

Stray Dog Population and Sterilisation Gap

A ground-level survey conducted for the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation by the NGO Compassion for Animal Welfare Association (CAWA) estimates the city’s stray dog population at around 8,679 , with a 20% margin of error—placing the possible range between 6,619 and 10,739 dogs .

Although the Animal Birth Control (ABC) programme began in 2013, implementation has remained inconsistent. In recent years, the civic body has sterilised only about 1,200 dogs annually , far below the estimated requirement of 4,000–5,000 sterilisations per year needed to stabilise the population.

Shift Towards Shelters and Public Response

Following a change in civic administration, authorities have increased efforts to relocate captured stray dogs to shelters rather than relying solely on sterilisation. While intended as an immediate containment measure, the approach has sparked resistance in some neighbourhoods, reflecting tensions between public safety concerns and animal welfare perspectives.

Important Facts for Exams

• Kerala reported 3.69 lakh dog bite cases in 2025

• Thiruvananthapuram recorded the highest number of cases at 58,108

• 33 rabies deaths were reported in Kerala in 2025

• Effective dog population control requires 4,000–5,000 sterilisations annually in Thiruvananthapuram

• Animal Birth Control (ABC) is the legally mandated method for stray dog management in India