LAHORE: Pakistani actor Sabeena Farooq has spoken out against the killing of stray dogs, questioning why some people support culling animals instead of promoting vaccination and humane population control measures.
In a recent Instagram story, the actor addressed the issue of rabies and public reactions to stray dogs, arguing that the actions of a few animals should not be used to justify the killing of entire populations.
“When we don’t punish all people for the actions of one individual, we shouldn’t punish all dogs because a few carry rabies,” Farooq wrote. She added that only those with compassion and understanding would appreciate the distinction and expressed hope that critics would develop greater empathy toward animals.
The actor’s comments came after she shared a video posted by Lahore-based animal rights activist Uswa Ahmed. In the video, Ahmed confronted sanitation workers associated with the Suthra Punjab project after spotting a trailer carrying dog carcasses. The activist questioned the workers about the deaths of the animals, while the workers denied responsibility and left the scene.
The video sparked debate on social media. Many users expressed support for animal welfare efforts, while others criticized activists for focusing on stray animals instead of other social issues. Some commenters also mocked Ahmed for referring to stray dogs under her care as her “children.”
The issue of stray dog management has remained controversial in Punjab. The Lahore High Court has previously directed authorities to avoid culling dogs and instead follow humane population control measures outlined in the Punjab Animal Birth Control Policy 2021.
Despite these directives, reports have continued to emerge regarding the killing of stray dogs in Lahore through poisoning and shooting. Animal welfare advocates have called for greater emphasis on vaccination, sterilisation and long-term population management strategies as alternatives to culling.