The sleepy town of Hossana in central Ethiopia has been left reeling after a catastrophic series of events unfolded, culminating in the mass slaughter of hundreds of dogs. The tragic deaths of three children due to rabies, followed by the hospitalisation of 80 others, served as the spark that ignited this disturbing chain reaction. In an attempt to stem the tide of dog-borne diseases, local community groups issued ultimatums to residents, demanding they kill their own pets or face severe penalties – including hefty fines and arrest.
Disturbing eyewitness accounts have emerged detailing the distressing methods employed by owners, who were forced to either hang or beat their animals to death. Others handed over their beloved pets, leaving many heartbroken families struggling to cope with the trauma of losing their loyal companions. Photos obtained by the BBC – while too graphic for publication – appear to show a grim spectacle, with dog bodies hanging from trees and deceased animals lying in fields with ropes around their necks.
Local vet Alaazar Ayele has expressed profound sadness over the events, estimating that between 400 and 450 dogs were killed within a few days. He condemned the methods as 'immoral and unacceptable', noting that videos showed owners weeping as their dogs were killed. Mayor Samuel Shigute acknowledged that approximately 70% of Hossana's 10,000 dogs were vaccinated guard dogs, highlighting the widespread impact on responsible pet owners.
While the community associations behind these directives are reportedly affiliated with the local government, Mayor Samuel has publicly denounced the dog killings as 'illegal' and asserted they were not sanctioned by his administration. However, Feven Melese, leader of an animal rights organisation in Addis Ababa, suggests that while the large-scale culling may have ceased, individuals are still going door-to-door to demand the removal of unvaccinated dogs.
The threat of a 50,000 birr fine – equivalent to approximately £225 – appears to have been a significant motivator for residents to comply with the demands. In Ethiopia, it is illegal to kill animals in public spaces or inflict cruel and abnormal suffering upon them. Mayor Samuel has confirmed he has ordered police to investigate the killings, while Feven Melese has urged authorities to take swift action, calling for accountability if the local government bodies deny responsibility for the orders.