The City of Bulawayo has officially begun enforcing its Dog Tie-Up Order, a month long operation aimed at controlling the growing population of stray dogs. Running from 5 May to 5 June 2025, the campaign is a response to an uptick in dog bite incidents and fears of a potential rabies outbreak. Authorities are urging residents to confine their dogs within secure premises or risk losing them.
Under the operation, residents must keep their dogs restrained and within enclosed yards. Any unconfined dogs found wandering will be impounded or put down if necessary. The City Council is working in coordination with the Zimbabwe Republic Police and the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) to enforce the measures.
Bulawayo is executing the campaign under its existing Dog Licensing and Control By-Laws, which regulate the number of dogs allowed per property and the conditions under which they can be kept. These laws empower city officials to act against non compliant dog owners.
According to the by-laws, residents on properties smaller than 2,000m² may keep no more than two dogs, while those on larger plots may keep up to four. Dogs must not be allowed to roam freely and may only be kept on properties that are securely fenced or walled. Hedges do not meet the city’s safety standards.
Additionally, all dogs within the Council’s jurisdiction must be licensed and vaccinated against rabies. Authorities have issued a stern warning that failure to adhere to these regulations will result in swift action, including the removal or destruction of unrestrained animals.
