Gujarat: Rabid stray dog attacks nine people in Navsari village, animal caught and neutralised; officials confirm rabies
Rabid stray dog attack Gujarat leaves residents injured and fearful in Vansda area (Image: Dall-E)
On 21 December, a rabid stray dog went on a biting spree and attacked at least nine persons in the Unai Khambhaliya area of Vansda taluka in Gujarat. The incident triggered widespread fear among residents.
According to media reports, the dog suddenly turned unusually violent on the day of the incident and attacked residents across several lanes within a short period. This created chaos in the locality. Out of fear of the rabid dog, residents remained indoors for hours.
Victims given anti rabies treatment, three referred to Navsari
Local health officials confirmed that all the injured were immediately provided medical care, including post exposure anti rabies vaccination. Six of the victims were treated at a nearby local health facility. Three of the injured were referred to Navsari Civil Hospital for further treatment.
Those treated locally have been identified as Mahendrabhai Manubhai Patel, Varshaben Yogeshbhai Chaudhary, Kevinbhai Rajeshbhai Lad, Pratiben Ravibhai Nimawat, Zhilkumar Vipulbhai Bhoy, and Vikeshbhai Mahendrabhai Chaudhary. The three referred patients are Maqsudbhai Fakirbhai Sheikh, Bapu Sonubhai Gaikwad, and Ganpatbhai Dahyabhai Patel.
Rabies confirmed, dog neutralised after local efforts
After sustained efforts by locals, the dog was eventually caught and neutralised. Officials from the district animal husbandry department later stated that a preliminary investigation confirmed rabies infection in the animal.
Veterinary authorities have now planned vaccination and awareness drives in the affected locality. “Residents should immediately report any suspicious animal behaviour and ensure that their pets are properly vaccinated,” a veterinary official from Vansda said.
Rising concern over stray dog attacks in Gujarat
The incident has raised serious concerns over the management of stray dogs in South Gujarat. According to RTI data, there were over 39,000 dog bite cases in Gujarat in 2024 and in 2025, till June, there were over 29,000 dog bite cases. This clearly shows that dog bite cases spiked in the state in 2025.
Local residents have demanded strict action against stray dogs. The incident has come to light amid an ongoing debate and a case in the Supreme Court of India over the stray dog menace.
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