CHENNAI: In a move aimed at addressing the growing threat posed by dog-related safety concerns, the Tamil Nadu government has issued a Government Order (GO) permitting mercy killing (euthanasia) of critically ill or severely suffering dogs.

According to the GO, dogs shall not be euthanised simply because they can no longer breed or be sold commercially. Only mortally wounded or incurably ill dogs may be euthanised, and this must be done solely by a registered veterinary practitioner. The process must be properly documented, including post-mortem reports, and the carcasses must be disposed of humanely as per official norms.

The dog menace in Tamil Nadu has been escalating in recent years, causing widespread fear and frustration among the public. Incidents of dog bites, rabies infections, road accidents, and general safety concerns have become increasingly common, especially affecting children, women, and the elderly.

Recent data revealed that 39,259 people have been affected between January and June this year by dog bites, with two rabies-related deaths in Tiruvallur and Kancheepuram.