In the leafy suburbs of Nairobi county, dogs are often perceived to be man’s best friend and even used by most people as security in their homes.
However, somewhere in Eastlando, the narrative is not the same. Residents of Umoja One have complained of stray dogs in the estate which they say pose as a security threat to their children.
They residents said that the untamed dogs which have not been vaccinated against rabies said for two months, have been wandering in the estate.
“We don’t know where these dogs came from. They are everywhere,” said Justin Ouko, one of the residents.
According to the residents, the dogs chase after people heading to work and those who walk during early morning hours.
The residents now say that they are worried that the dogs might hurt their children when schools open.
“Schools are set to open in a week and we are concerned about our children’s safety, especially those who walk to school,” Mary Nduta said.
Residents suspect the dogs belong to the street urchins who have also increased in the estate.
Umoja One MCA Mark Mugambi said he has sought help from the county government, but he is not satisfied with the response.
“These dogs have bitten a few residents and we fear they will spread rabies,” Mugambi said.
On his part, Agriculture Executive Peter Wachira said that the county has had problems impounding the stray dogs. Wachira said that the pound currently has 150 dogs in a facility that is in bad shape amid plans of its rehabilitation.
Wachira further explained that shooting the dogs was opposed by the Security Compliance chief officer. He added that the county is not able to acquire free bullets and guns due to the firearm ban that was imposed by Interior CS Fred Matiang’i.
Mr. Wachira revealed that the county is buying dog and cat traps to end the problem.