Animal Welfare Archives - 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)

For more details visit us: https://lokmarg.com/

Jyoti Mishra, the co-founder of NGO Shiv Ananta Foundation, says brutal summer can be lethal for community animals and calls for public action for their welfare. Her views:

As an NGO worker dedicated to the welfare of stray animals, I am deeply concerned about the severe impact of scorching heat and growing concrete infrastructure on the vulnerable creatures. Each year, as temperatures soar, the plight of stray dogs, cows, and other community animals worsens, often leading to untimely deaths and unbearable living conditions. The relentless heatwave, coupled with urbanization, poses a significant threat to their survival, and it is imperative that we take collective action to mitigate these challenges.

The brutal summer heat can be lethal for stray animals. Unlike humans, these animals do not have the luxury of seeking refuge in air-conditioned spaces or accessing a constant supply of clean water. Stray dogs, for instance, suffer from heatstroke, dehydration, and burned paws due to the scalding concrete roads. Cows, which are often left to wander the streets, face similar fates. Their thick coats and inability to sweat efficiently make them particularly susceptible to heat stress, leading to severe health issues and, in many cases, death.

Concrete roads exacerbate these problems significantly. During the peak summer months, these surfaces can become unbearably hot, often reaching temperatures that cause severe burns. This not only affects the physical well-being of the animals but also restricts their movement, making it difficult for them to find food, water, and shelter. The lack of shaded areas and green spaces in urban settings further compounds their misery, leaving them with little respite from the oppressive heat.

ALSO READ: ‘Pollution is Causing Breathing Issues In Animals Too’

NGOs like ours play a crucial role in alleviating the suffering of these animals. Our primary focus is on providing immediate relief and long-term solutions. During heatwaves, we set up water stations across the city, ensuring that stray animals have access to fresh, clean water. These stations are strategically placed in areas with high stray populations and are regularly monitored and refilled by our volunteers.

Additionally, we organize community awareness campaigns to educate the public about the importance of helping stray animals. Simple acts, such as leaving out bowls of water, providing temporary shelters made from discarded materials, or even just offering a shaded spot, can make a tremendous difference. Public participation is crucial, as a collective effort can significantly amplify the impact of our initiatives.

Our efforts also extend to rescuing animals in distress. During particularly harsh weather, our rescue teams are on high alert, responding to calls about animals suffering from heatstroke or injuries caused by hot surfaces. These animals are brought to our shelters, where they receive medical care, nourishment, and a safe place to recover. We work closely with veterinarians to ensure that they are treated promptly and effectively.

Moreover, we advocate for the creation of more green spaces within urban areas. Parks, tree-lined streets, and community gardens not only enhance the environment but also provide much-needed relief to stray animals. We collaborate with local governments and urban planners to push for animal-friendly infrastructure that considers the well-being of all living beings within the city.

The challenges faced by stray animals during extreme heat are immense, but with continued effort and compassion, we can make a difference. NGOs, volunteers, and compassionate citizens must work together to create a safer, more humane environment for these animals. By addressing both immediate needs and long-term solutions, we can help ensure that stray animals are not left to suffer and that they receive the care and protection they deserve.

As told to Deepti Sharma

For more details visit us: https://lokmarg.com/

Tag: Animal Welfare

‘Calling Stray Dogs A Menace Is The Easy Part’

‘Spare A Thought For Stray Animals In This Heatwave’