Community Participation in Stray Dog Population Management as a Rabies Control Strategy in Plateau State

Stray dog population management is a critical component of rabies elimination programs, and its success depends significantly on community participation and local government support. This study assessed the role of community participation in stray dog management as a rabies control strategy in Jos North Local Government Area, Plateau State, North Central Nigeria. A mixed-methods study incorporated questionnaire surveys with 200 community members, focus group discussions with six community groups, and key informant interviews with 10 local government veterinary officers. Awareness of current stray dog management initiatives, willingness to participate in vaccination campaigns, and attitudes toward dog culling were assessed. Survey results showed that 62% of respondents supported community-based dog vaccination over culling, and 71% expressed willingness to present owned dogs for free vaccination. However, only 14% were aware of any existing stray dog management program in their area. Focus groups revealed distrust of government-led initiatives and preference for community-managed programs. The study concludes that community-based participatory approaches to stray dog population management are viable and preferred in Plateau State, but require stronger government-community co-design frameworks. Recommendations include establishment of community dog vaccination committees, integration of traditional leaders in program delivery, and investment in sustained annual mass vaccination campaigns. Keywords: stray dog management, rabies control, community participation, Plateau State, dog vaccination