MARONDERA- The Municipality of Marondera recently advised residents and
stakeholders that its public health section is enforcing a stray dog tie-up order in an
effort to prevent and control rabies cases.
This exercise is in response to complaints from residents as well as an increase in
the number of stray dog bites as noted by the council’s Rapid Disease Notification
system as well as reported by health centers.
The Animal Health Act, Rabies Regulations 1966 amended in 1986, in conjunction
with the Marondera Municipality Stray Animals By-law and as read with Section 83
(1) Part X of the Urban Councils Act (Chapter 29:15) specify that no owner shall
allow their pet to roam without restraint beyond the limits of their property. This Act
also makes it clear that every owner of a pet shall ensure that their property is
securely fenced and gated to keep their pets within the limits of their property.
In a statement, the council said: “Dog owners are being reminded that they must
ensure that their dogs are licensed and have valid vaccination certificates. If a dog is
not vaccinated and licensed, the owner will be fined in line with the current budget
rates.
”Members of the public are being reminded that any dog found roaming on the roads
unleashed will be considered as a stray and will be put down as a result. Dog owners
are being urged to keep their dogs within their properties or keep them on a leash
when outside their premises.”
Meanwhile, in an unrelated development, the local authority has gone on overdrive
reminding the business community that it is a legal requirement that all businesses
operating within its jurisdiction operate with a valid operating licence in line with the
Shop Licence Act (Chapter 14:17).
“Businesses that are currently operating without a valid business licence are in
breach of the Shop License Act (Chapter 14:17). Businesses with business license
that expired on June 30 2023 are being reminded to renew their operating licences
to avoid paying penalties.
“Proprietors are being encouraged to take advantage of this grace period that is
being extended to them to avoid any unnecessary inconveniences,” a council
statement stated.
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