The Lahore High Court was informed on Monday that Mayo Hospital treated more than 1,700 dog-bite cases in just 14 months. The number shocked many, as the hospital’s accident and emergency department recorded 1,796 patients including many children from Sept 24, 2024, to the present date. This data was shared in a report submitted by the hospital’s additional medical superintendent during the court hearing.
The case was brought forward by Young Doctors Association Secretary General Dr. Salman Kazmi, who filed a petition asking for urgent measures. He highlighted two major problems: the fast-growing number of stray dogs and the shortage of rabies vaccines across Punjab. He said the situation has become dangerous, especially for children living in areas where stray dogs roam freely.
During the hearing, Justice Khalid Ishaq showed deep concern about the increase in dog-bite incidents. While the judge acknowledged that animals also have rights, he stressed that children cannot be left unsafe on the streets. He asked the concerned government departments to submit detailed reports at the next hearing, so the court can understand the situation more clearly.
The petitioner’s lawyer, Azhar Siddique, argued that the administration has failed to control the stray dog population. He said many neighborhoods have become so unsafe that children are unable to go outside. He also pointed out that the Animal Birth Control Policy 2021, which bans the killing of stray dogs, should be reconsidered if it is preventing effective action.
The counsel requested the court to order free rabies treatment in all public hospitals and to ensure proper availability of vaccines. He also asked for a province-wide report covering all dog-bite cases, rabies deaths, and the stock of vaccines in Punjab.
The rising number of dog-bite cases has now become a serious public safety issue, and the court’s next steps will be crucial in addressing the growing concern.