Free-Roaming Dog Versus Stray Dog: Which is better terminology for Rabies control?

Abstract

Introduction: Dogs have been an integral part of human life and human
settlements. Free-roaming dogs, often lack formal ownership but
remain integral to their surroundings. However, inconsistent terms like
“stray” or “feral” shape public attitudes, frequently leading to neglect
and harmful interventions. This review examines how language plays
a role in shaping public health strategies and attitudes toward dogs,
focusing on humane rabies control.
Methods: Using a narrative review approach, the study examines
research articles, policy documents, and legal frameworks like the
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (1960), to assess the definitions,
cultural attitudes, and rabies prevention strategies for humane
management practices.
Results: Free-roaming dogs are diverse, ranging from independent
feral dogs to community dogs cared for informally. Many remain
unvaccinated and unmonitored, perpetuating rabies transmission.
Achieving 70% vaccination coverage is critical to breaking this cycle.
Success stories from Bhutan and Bali illustrate how humane strategies
such as mass vaccination and sterilization outperform harmful practices
like culling. Shifting from “stray dog” to “free-roaming dog” encourages
compassion, redefines public perceptions, and supports effective
management.
Conclusion: Aligning societal attitudes with humane legal frameworks
fosters safer communities for humans and dogs alike. Adopting
compassionate language and strategies promotes coexistence, protects
public health, and ensures that free-roaming dogs are treated with
dignity and respect. This simple change in terminology inspires a broader
cultural shift toward humane treatment and sustainable solutions.

How to cite this article:

Jena P K, Agarwal S J, Kishore J, Sahu L S. Free-
Roaming Dog Versus Stray Dog: Which is better

terminology for Rabies control?. J Commun Dis.
2025;57(1):185-190.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/0019.5138.202523