Mangaluru, Feb 8: In a first for the city, Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) is set to conduct a comprehensive stray dog survey to address population control measures. Despite legal requirements for such surveys, this initiative had not been implemented in Mangaluru until now.
The survey will be carried out in collaboration with Animal Care Trust, Shaktinagar, and Worldwide Veterinary Service. Mapping of all 60 city wards has already been completed in preparation for the study.
A mobile application will be used to document the stray dog population across these wards. The project will require at least 120 volunteers, and registrations are currently open. Each survey team will consist of two members—one to drive and another to record and upload data. Teams will operate within one ward for three days, systematically covering designated areas.
The collected data will include geo-tagged images, gender identification, sterilization status, and the number of puppies. Surveyors will follow a structured route, covering a fixed distance daily to ensure accuracy.
To maximize visibility, the survey will be conducted during early morning hours, from 5:30 am to 8 am. The Worldwide Veterinary Service will analyze the data, with a final report expected by the end of March.
For areas inaccessible by two-wheelers, additional teams will conduct surveys on foot.
Volunteer Participation and Training
“As we require over 120 volunteers, we have reached out to schools and colleges to encourage student participation. So far, around 60 volunteers have registered, and we invite public participation as well. A training session for volunteers is scheduled for February 9,” said Suma Nayak from Animal Care Trust.
The survey will take place from February 10 to 13, between 5:30 am and 8 am. Volunteers using motorcycles must have a valid driving license.
Mayor Manoj Kumar confirmed that preparations are in full swing, with MCC, Animal Care Trust, and Worldwide Veterinary Service working together to ensure the survey’s successful execution.