Tag: Animal lovers

Viewing Stray Dogs As A Menace Is The Easy Part

‘Calling Stray Dogs A Menace Is The Easy Part’

By LokMarg

Abhishek Anand, co-founder of a welfare NGO called Daan India Foundation, details the challenges before animal lovers in urban parts of the country. His views

As a dog-shelter owner in India, I witness firsthand the complexities surrounding the issue of stray dogs. The debate largely oscillates between viewing stray dogs as a menace and recognizing them as ill-treated animals. Stray dogs, indeed, present a significant challenge due to their growing numbers, which strain resources and often trigger conflicts. However, it’s crucial to understand that the root of this problem lies not with the animals themselves but with systemic failures, particularly the lack of effective implementation of the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules of 2001 by local municipal authorities.

The Supreme Court’s ABC Rules were designed to manage and control the stray dog population humanely. Unfortunately, compliance is abysmally low, with an estimated 99% of municipal bodies across India failing to adhere to these guidelines. This negligence leads to overpopulation, which in turn results in increased incidents of dog bites and conflicts between humans and strays. It’s far too easy to label stray dogs as a menace without addressing the core issue of mismanagement by authorities.

In high-rise societies, there is a disconnect between residents and the realities of pet ownership. Many Apartment Owners Associations (AOAs) and Resident Welfare bodies (RWAs) act beyond their legal boundaries, imposing arbitrary rules that make life difficult for pet owners and their dogs. These groups most commonly prohibit pets from using common facilities like lifts, which is not only unfair but also illegal.

The Supreme Court has upheld the right of citizens to feed strays, and the Animal Welfare Board of India has issued guidelines stating that RWAs cannot deny feeding or designate feeding spots without the agreement of feeders. RWAs can face legal action for issuing illegal orders or intimidating residents who feed dogs.

ALSO READ: A Progressive Society Enjoys Life With Dogs, Other Pets

On the flip side, pet owners also have a responsibility to understand and manage their pets appropriately. Many people adopt dogs without fully understanding the breed’s needs and behavioral traits. For instance, breeds like German Shepherd or Beagle require ample space, socialization, and training. Keeping such active dogs confined in small apartments without adequate mental and physical stimulation can lead to behavioral issues. Pet parents must educate themselves about the breeds they adopt and provide proper training and socialization to ensure their pets are well-adjusted and non-aggressive.

Feeding strays is an act of compassion, aimed at reducing hunger-induced aggression and territorial behavior. However, those who feed strays must do so responsibly. Feeding dogs at a specific spot can make them territorial about that area, leading to aggressive behavior towards passersby. Therefore, feeders should choose feeding locations wisely and ensure that these spots do not become contentious zones within communities.

It’s imperative for municipal authorities to take their responsibilities seriously and implement the ABC Rules effectively to control the stray population. Concurrently, communities need to foster a culture of coexistence, where the rights and responsibilities of pet owners, strays, and other residents are balanced. Education and awareness programs can play a significant role in bridging the gap between different stakeholders, promoting understanding, and reducing conflicts.

Ultimately, the issue of stray dogs in India requires a collaborative approach. Municipal authorities must be held accountable for their lapses, pet owners need to be responsible and informed, and community groups should respect legal guidelines while fostering harmony. By working together, we can create an environment where humans and animals coexist peacefully, respecting each other’s rights and needs

(Daan India offers a range of services aimed at providing care and support to vulnerable beings, including animals and humans, as well as communities in need)

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‘Humans Must Come Out To Help The Voiceless In A Flood-Like Situation’

By LokMarg

Vidit Sharma, a Noida-based animal rights activist, says all compassionate humans must come together to rescue stranded animals during a natural calamity. His views:

Flooding can indeed be a devastating natural calamity, and the bravery of those who volunteered to save humans and animals stuck or stranded in water are commendable. Our Animal Welfare Project has been serving the strays of Noida and various locations with dedication and compassion. So, when the rising level of Yamuna recently wreaked havoc on Noida and Delhi floodplains, we extended our support to the animals affected by the calamity, providing them with much-needed relief and care.

It is heartwarming to know that we were not alone in this noble work. There are many other good Samaritans who selflessly and tirelessly worked during these tough times. In a world where humans often take center stage, there exists a devoted team committed to making a difference in the lives of animals.

During such floods, animals often find themselves in life-threatening situations, trapped in rising waters and in urgent need for rescue. Our team has been working to ensure that post-rescue these animals receive the nourishment they require. We have managed to feed thousands of strays daily, distributing food to various locations where these animals seek refuge.

Our work is not restricted to saving only the canine. Cows, a revered specie in our culture, are often left to fend for themselves in urban areas. Recognizing their plight, our project has taken up the responsibility of caring for hundreds of cattle. Our team provides these bovine creatures with food and water, aiming to improve their quality of life and promote compassion towards them.

When floods struck the Yamuna floodplains in Delhi and Noida, our hearts went out to the animals struggling to survive amidst the disaster. Our relief and rescue efforts for animals became a top priority. We initiated feeding and rescue operations for both cattle and dogs affected by the disaster.

ALSO READ: Flood Victims Return To Camps As Yamuna Rises

Hundreds of distressed dogs were rescued during the floods and shifted to a safer location. Taking upon ourselves the responsibility to feed and provide support to these rescued animals, we ensured they received the care they deserved in the aftermath of the disaster.

Our project’s dedication is evident through the deployment of a special food van that reaches hundreds of strays in various locations. This mobile support unit provides the much-needed nutrition to these animals, ensuring they do not go hungry in their time of need.

Animal welfare is a mission which is very close to my heart. While several organizations tirelessly work towards human welfare, the cause of animal welfare often receives less attention. We recognized this disparity and took up the mission to serve thousands of strays, ensuring they are not forgotten or neglected.

Our Project stands as a shining example of compassion and dedication towards the voiceless creatures who share our living space. Through feeding the strays and taking care of cows during flo situations, we strive to make a significant impact on the lives of these animals. As we continue our mission to serve the animals in need, we call upon others to join us and become a part of this noble endeavor. Together, we can create a brighter, more compassionate world for all beings, big and small.

As told to Deepti Sharma

Civil Volunteers Rescue Strays

Civilian Volunteers Unite To Rescue Strays, Cattle Stuck In Delhi Flood

By LokMarg

A collective effort from animal lovers in Delhi saved the day for hundreds of animals stranded in Yamuna floodplains when waters rose to an alarming level on July 12. In all, over 400 cattle and 450 strays were rescued from the Yamuna Khadar area over three days of efforts and grit.

It all began with a routine call to an animal helpline which said that there were some dogs and cattle stranded in the Yamuna Khadar area, adjoining Delhi-Noida link road after the heavy rains.

A chance site visit revealed the extent of the disaster. Water had risen cutting off whole areas and leaving animals alone and desperate in areas from where humans had already been evacuated. Immediately, a network of animal lovers got created via text messages and calls, summoning help from wherever it might be available. NDRF officials were helped by a bevy of civil volunteers who risked high waters to rescue dogs stuck on trees, roofs or swimming to save their lives.

That same night brought news of animal shelters being submerged. Overnight, volunteers evacuated 350 dogs from one shelter, carrying them through chest-high water to waiting trucks, and 100 dogs from another.

Cattle would prove an even bigger challenge. A gaushala with 400 cows seemed an impossible task but on July 13th with waters reaching an all-time high of 50 years, teams of gausevaks working all night with NDRF veterans moved them to higher ground.

Local administrations were besieged with requests for boats as huge numbers of volunteers arrived at every affected area. Disaster relief planners who had never before taken into account the need to plan for animal evacuations were forced to take stock. Social media was abuzz with visuals of abandoned cattle, desperate dogs, terrified cats, and even rabbits and guinea pigs who needed help.

Expert catchers from Friendicoes, quite literally, jumped into and led the rescue efforts. Gaurav Dar was here, there, and everywhere, organising and cheering on the teams. Sanjay Mohapatra, Tarana Singh, Rashim Sharma, Ayesha Christina, Puneeta, and Abhijeet were other heroes of the day.

Mrs. Ambika Shukla [Trustee], Anushka Chowdhary, and Noor Verma, PFA provided on-ground as well as back-end support as they relentlessly liaised with the administration for boats and tractors.

Cheers go up as six dogs, three goats, and a little pup are offloaded. ‘Everyone’s exhausted but no one is going to stop until the last animal is safely out,’ sums up volunteer Anurag Mahajan.

Read More: http://13.232.95.176/

Animal Lovers Call For Rally In Delhi Against Killing of Stray Dogs

By LokMarg

Remember Bruno? The pet dog whose legs were tied and was beaten to death with iron rods and sticks by humans on a beachside in Kerala.

There are thousands of dogs like Bruno. Without a name. Without a home. They brave the heat and cold, lack of food and water but worst of all, wanton human cruelty. Their only fault- they are born on the street. Thousands of dogs like Bruno, have been subjected to severe atrocities in the recent past all over India and more specifically in the State of Kerala- the state with the highest literacy rate. What are we teaching?

We therefore asks all animal lovers to unite and demand justice for helpless strays. This is a call for responsible citizens to participate in a rally on September 24 at 2 pm near Jantar Mantar and demand a dignified life for stray animals.

Despite the matter being sub-judicebefore the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, and despite issuance of protective orders in favour of the street dogs to protect them from any harm and danger as also relocation from their respective territories, recently, thousands of innocent street dogs have been mercilessly killed, harmed and relocated from their territory in the following ghastly manner:

Kerala: Over 1000 street dogs (including pet dogs) have been poisoned, beaten to death with iron rods and sticks, hung by the neck, burned and buried alive.

Bellary, Karnataka: Over 100 street dogs whose mouths and legs were tied with metal wires were thrown into the forest.

Nipani, Belgaum, Karnataka: Over 60 street dogs beaten up, bound and thrown outside the municipal limits.

Bijapur, Karnataka: Over 25 dogs and pups were beaten and taken away by the Patil Medical College.

Dogs have been domesticated and been the companions of humans since centuries. Dogs are an integral part of the Army and Police and have proven to be the best therapy animals for the blind, autistic children and people in need. With the onset of several natural calamities including widespread flash floods, incessant rainfall, spread of epidemics and dangerous diseases, is it not time we learn and understand to CO-EXIST and respect nature and her creations.

Animal Cruelty is scientifically known to be perpetrated by humans who often harm children, abuse women and engage in heinous crimes. It is light of the recent hostility and rise of cruelty against street dogs, we the Citizens of India seek to call attention to the need for compassion for all living beings and to discharge our constitutional duty under Article 51 (g) & (h) of the Constitution of India. Our Citizens Rally stands up for dogs, man’s best friend who down the ages have given us their unconditional love, loyalty and service. It is appealed to all citizens of India, to join this Citizens Rally and speak up for those who cannot speak.

We call for immediate implementation of the following:

Nationwide implementation of Animal Birth Control Rules, 2001 to sterilize and immunize street dogs, advertised and promoted to encourage public participation.

Appropriate sensitivity training for municipal and panchayat staff as well as for police and law enforcement agencies.

Inclusion of animal welfare as a subject in schools.

Promotion of PM Modi’s initiative to adopt Indian Dogs, preventing illegal breeding and sale of dogs.

The immediate adoption of the amended Prevention of Cruelty To Animals Act, 1960 with increased punishment for crimes against animals.