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.