The Municipal Veterinary Department, which belongs to the Colombo Municipal Council, is the department entrusted with the responsibility of controlling rabies within the Colombo city limits. This department uses humane methods to control the street dog population in accordance with the Rabies Ordinance, the Dog Registration Ordinance and the by-laws of the Colombo Municipality. Free sterilization of dogs and cats and rabies vaccination programs are carried out at the anti-rabies clinic and in the field. Municipal veterinary officers and other staff are constantly educating the public about responsible animal husbandry and thereby reducing the problems caused by feeding animals in public places. This will avoid attracting animals to public places and prevent dog bites.
This program was started under the Honorable Governor of the Western Province.