Census for the Dogs Too?

 

Gilbert Munetsi

 Zim Now Writer

Censuses are a regular exercise as governments conduct them to track population growth, plan resources, and, of course, remind us just how many of us exist.

But just when you thought you have heard it all, brace yourself for this: Marondera Municipality is about to conduct a dog census!

Yes, your four-legged security guard, floor-warming companion, and enthusiastic meal-time beggar is about to get officially counted.

On Wednesday morning, residents of Marondera town woke up to a public notice from their local authority stating that, in accordance with some seriously official-sounding statutes, a dog census and licensing operation is imminent.

The notice declared:

“The Municipality of Marondera would like to inform its valued residents and stakeholders that the Public Health Section will be conducting a dog census and licensing operation in accordance with the dog licensing by-laws.”

In simple terms, this means council officials will be knocking on doors, clipboard in hand, demanding to know just how many woofs you have in your backyard.

The motivation? A noticeable surge in the dog population and, naturally, a rise in stray dogs. So, the council is taking matters into its own hands with a “dog licensing blitz.”

And to hammer home the message that this is not just a casual roll call, the authorities are serious about compliance. Dog owners are expected to have their pets vaccinated and licensed, or else risk a fine.

The municipality also reminded residents that, as per the Animal Health Act, Rabies Regulations of 1966 (amended in 1986), and the Marondera Municipality Stray Animals by-laws, all dogs should remain within their owner’s property. For overexcited pets that would fancy an unsupervised stroll, the consequences are dire – euthanisation.

The message from Marondera Municipality is crystal clear: “Every pet owner must ensure that their property is securely fenced and gated to keep their pet(s) within the limits of their property.”

The town’s dog licensing and census operation aims to curb the rising dog population and prevent rabies outbreaks. So, if your furry friend isn’t officially on the books yet, now’s the time to make it happen—before the dog police come knocking!

In the meantime, someone should probably break the news to the dogs.

Leave Comments

Top