Mass Dog Slaughters in Ethiopia Spark Shock After Rabies Deaths

Sun Sep 06 2026 08:07:38 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

After three children died from rabies in Hossana, Ethiopia, local groups ordered the killing of hundreds of dogs, sparking outrage and legal questions.

In Hossana, Ethiopian community groups threatened residents with fines and arrest if they did not kill their dogs after three children were killed by rabies. Witnesses described dogs being hung or beaten, and photographs of dead animals were circulated. Local authorities declared the killings illegal and called for police action, while veterinarians reported 400-450 dogs were killed in days. The incident has drawn attention from animal‑rights activists and raises issues about public health, animal welfare, and legal protection.

In the central town of Hossana, Ethiopia, residents were told to kill their dogs after three children died from rabies. The order came from powerful community groups affiliated with local government, warning that owners would face fines or arrest if they did not comply.

Witnesses reported that many owners hanged or beat dogs to death, while some gave their animals to others for execution. Photographs of dogs hanging from trees and lay on fields showed the scale of the tragedy. The local mayor called the killings “illegal,” stating his administration had not authorized them.

A veterinarian estimated that between 400 and 450 dogs were euthanised in just a few days. He condemned the method as cruel and unacceptable, describing owners crying as their pets were killed.

In Ethiopia, killing animals in public or causing them harm is against the law. The mayor ordered police to investigate, while an animal‑rights activist demanded swift action against the perpetrators.

Although authorities say the mass killings have stopped, some residents are still being asked to remove unvaccinated dogs. The situation highlights the complex balance between preventing rabies and protecting animal rights.