LAHORE: Punjab has recorded more than 514,000 dog bite cases between January 2024 and March 2026, according to an official report submitted to the Lahore High Court by the provincial Health and Population Department.
The data reveals a steady rise in incidents over the past two years. In 2024, a total of 232,704 people were bitten by stray dogs. The number increased to 243,299 in 2025, while the first three months of 2026 alone saw 38,586 reported cases.
Several districts have been identified as the most affected. Dera Ghazi Khan topped the list with 34,293 cases, followed by Rahim Yar Khan (33,122) and Faisalabad (32,853). Other districts with high numbers include Muzaffargarh (29,471), Rajanpur (27,500), and Rawalpindi (26,586).
In major urban centres, Lahore reported 18,514 cases, Gujranwala 20,147, and Kasur 19,372. Meanwhile, Mianwali (19,099), Multan (16,213), Sargodha (15,746), Sheikhupura (15,340), and Gujrat (15,468) also recorded significant figures.
The health department stated that dog bite cases are being closely monitored across the province. It added that immediate medical care and anti-rabies vaccination (ARV) are being provided to affected individuals.
Officials further claimed that vaccine stocks are sufficient. Currently, 17,079 ARV vials are available at provincial storage facilities, while districts collectively hold 52,640 vials. Hospitals at district and tehsil levels, along with rural health centres, have also been instructed to maintain minimum stocks of 100, 50, and 20 vials respectively.
The report was submitted in response to a petition filed by the Young Doctors Association, which raised concerns over the government’s failure to control the growing number of dog bite incidents. Justice Khalid Ishaq has adjourned the case until May 4 for further proceedings.
In a related development, the Lahore High Court has sought written assurances from the Punjab government, the Lahore Waste Management Company (LWMC), and the Livestock Department to ensure strict implementation of the Punjab Animal (Dogs) Birth Control Policy 2021.
Justice Hassan Nawaz Makhdoom issued the directive while hearing a separate petition filed by PPP Lahore leaders. During the hearing, it was alleged that LWMC officials recently carried out a dog culling operation in Johar Town despite prior assurances against such actions. The incident reportedly caused panic among residents.
The court has now directed all concerned authorities to submit written undertakings, with further hearing scheduled for April 13.
