Authorities in Windhoek are raising concerns over the growing cases of dog neglect and mistreatment.

The City of Windhoek (CoW) has observed an increase in cases where dogs are not properly cared for, emphasising the need for stronger measures to protect them.

To address this, city officials are proposing the introduction of a dog tax, aimed at improving control and ensuring better care for dogs in Windhoek.

At the city's council meeting, it was revealed that the existing dog control ordinance is outdated, necessitating the creation of new regulations.

These new regulations aim to address modern challenges in dog ownership management and to ensure public safety and animal welfare.

The intended regulations include the mandatory registration of dogs, leash and confinement requirements, the reintroduction of dog license systems, and the introduction of fitness certificates for owners.

The debate during the City Council's monthly meeting was concluded with a decision to refer the proposed regulations for community input.

The need for stricter regulations on dog ownership has been underlined by tragic incidents involving dogs in recent years. In 2015, 13-year-old Fred Savage was mauled to death by two pit bull terriers in Otjomuise.

In 2017, three-year-old Mweneni Du Plessis was also attacked by a vicious dog and later succumbed to her injuries.

Currently the population of dogs in the city is estimated at about 20,000.