From culling threat to compassion: How Banani DOHS embraces stray dogs

One
year after resisting a proposed dog-culling plan, the residents of Banani DOHS
have transformed their neighbourhood into a model of humane animal care.
The turning point came in 2020, when residents, guided by Rabab Chowdhury,
launched a vaccination and sterilisation programme for 26 stray dogs in the
area.
The journey began in
2018, when the threat of dog culling loomed large. Rabab led an effort to
provide medical care for stray dogs in 2019, facing significant pushback.
Many residents suggested drastic measures, such as killing the
dogs or removing them from the area. Rather than giving in, Rabab persisted and
campaigned quietly but effectively for humane treatment.
Since then, the programme has become routine, with booster shots administered
each year.
The most recent round took place on August 15. Over time, the
dog population has naturally reduced through sterilisation, leaving 10 strays
in the neighbourhood today, all of them vaccinated and healthy.
According to Rabab, her family has borne the full financial
responsibility for the dogs' care and vaccinations.
"Dogs have learned to live alongside us and communicate, but sadly, many
people do not have the fundamental empathy to understand and communicate with
them in return," she told The Daily Star.
The initiative has not only improved animal welfare but also
enhanced safety for residents, removing fears of disease or uncontrolled growth
in stray numbers.
What began as an act of resistance against culling has grown
into a model of coexistence, proving that compassion can create lasting change.















