Labasa residents raises concerns on rising number of stray dogs

A growing number of stray dogs roaming parts of Labasa has raised concern among residents, particularly in Labasa Town, Namara, Tuatua and Lajonia.

Residents in Lajonia say the increase has become increasingly noticeable, with dogs frequently seen roaming freely through residential areas, including parts of Rara Housing.

Minister for Agriculture Tomasi Tunabuna said he would contact ministry staff in Labasa and provide an update on measures being taken to address the situation.

Advisory councillor for Lajonia, Baram Deo, said the issue escalated after villagers raised complaints about abandoned dogs and packs roaming within communities.

Mr Deo said improper waste disposal was a major contributor to the problem, as stray dogs were attracted to food scraps left in open areas.

“Labasa Town Council has visited Lajonia to engage with residents on the importance of proper garbage disposal to help reduce the stray dog population,” Mr Deo said.

“Some residents do not practise proper waste management, and this attracts stray dogs to the area.”

Lajonia resident Nilesh Prasad said the situation had become frustrating for families.

“Sometimes people abandon their dogs, and they come into our compounds and cause damage,” Mr Prasad said.

“They dirty our compounds, and we are left to clean up after them.”

Mr Deo urged residents to work closely with authorities by practising responsible pet ownership and proper waste management to prevent the issue from worsening.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Agriculture is expected to provide cages in Tabucola, Labasa, to safely capture and remove stray dogs from affected areas.