Najaf launches large-scale campaign to eliminate stray dogs

NAJAF — Local authorities in Najaf have launched a large-scale campaign to eliminate stray dogs across the governorate in what they say is a bid to protect residents and public health, particularly with the start of the 2025–2026 school year. The initiative follows reports of several dog attacks across the city.

In a statement, the Najaf Governorate’s media office said the campaign began Sunday evening with the participation of veterinary teams, subdistrict offices, and local administrators.

“The campaign aims to protect citizens and preserve public health, especially with the beginning of the new school year, after recording a number of attacks by stray dogs in different parts of the governorate,” the statement said.

The field teams began operations in the northern and southern districts of Najaf, as well as in Kufa, Al-Manathira, Al-Mishkhab, and Al-Qadisiyah, following a detailed plan targeting key areas where stray dogs are concentrated.

The first stage of the campaign involved placing about 1,200 poisoned bait traps in several neighborhoods, including Al-Jazeera District, Al-Salam Residential Complex, and Al-Wafaa Schools Street near Al-Hindiya houses. The campaign will continue in the coming days until all areas are covered.

Authorities urged residents to keep their pets indoors during the campaign to prevent accidental poisoning.

Government media teams accompanied the field units to document the veterinary and municipal crews’ efforts in what officials described as an essential public health and environmental protection measure to ensure community safety across Najaf.

Stray dog attacks continue to be a pressing issue in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, leading to increasing calls for measures. Stray dogs have been responsible for several attacks, some resulting in fatalities, particularly among children.