Kochi: The High Court on Wednesday observed that the civic bodies in the State have the right to cull rabid and dangerous stray dogs.
Tough measures should be taken to control the stray dog menace. Civic bodies can take necessary steps in that regard. But, animal rights should be protected while taking such measures, the Court observed while considering pleas seeking curbing of the stray dog menace in the State.
The court also said that the sterilization programme should be executed effectively.
It, however, said the killing of the stray dogs should be guided by the Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2001.