Baglung, Nepal — Baglung Municipality has introduced a new initiative to manage community and problematic stray dogs by establishing a dedicated “dog hostel” with residential facilities. The program aims to provide shelter, care, and long-term management for stray animals in the area.

The move comes after a rise in issues caused by stray dogs in Baglung Bazaar. In response, the municipality developed a sustainable management plan that includes land allocation, shelter construction, and open spaces where dogs can move and play freely.

The newly built facility has the capacity to house up to 50 dogs. In the first phase, 20 stray, sick, and vulnerable dogs have already been rescued and placed in the hostel. The facility was constructed on five ropani of land in Ward No. 3 of Baglung Municipality, at a total cost of NPR 10 million. The project includes fencing, staff for animal care, and arrangements for regular feeding, according to Mitra Prasad Sapkota, Chief of the Municipal Livestock Branch.

The hostel, located in Simle, Ward No. 3, was jointly funded with NPR 3.5 million from the municipality and NPR 6.5 million from the Chief Minister’s Office. The initiative was first proposed two years ago as part of the municipality’s policy and program for managing stray dogs.

Mayor Basanta Kumar Shrestha stated that the municipality is also conducting sterilization programs and plans to manage stray dogs through proper feeding and shelter. “There has been a growing trend of abandoning pet dogs once they fall sick, which has led to increased risks such as dog bites and accidents in the market area,” he said. “This hostel aims to address those issues.”

In addition, the municipality has made it mandatory to register pet dogs. The system ensures identification, vaccination, and medical care. Pet owners will be held accountable if their registered dogs are found roaming the streets. A registration fee of NPR 200 has been set, according to the municipal livestock branch.