Tag: Pet Owners

‘A Pet Owner Must Know the Needs & Nature of Adopted Breed’

By LokMarg

Sanjay Mohapatra, an animal rights activist in Noida who runs a free dispensary for strays, says most owners buy pure breeds without knowing the responsibilities it carries. His views:

In recent years, there has been a raging trend of people buying and adopting pure breed dogs without being fully aware of their needs. This careless approach to pet ownership has resulted in a disturbing trend of dogs being abandoned, neglected, and unfairly labeled as aggressive.

The desire for certain breeds of dogs has skyrocketed due to various factors, such as celebrity endorsements, social media trends, status symbol, and a misguided belief that pure breed dogs are superior. However, many people fail to realize that each breed has its unique set of requirements and characteristics. Ignorance regarding a breed’s needs can lead to serious consequences for both the dog and the owner.

One of the most disheartening outcomes of this trend is the abandonment of these dogs. When people purchase or adopt pure breed dogs without fully understanding their needs, they often find themselves overwhelmed by the responsibility. These individuals may not have the time, resource, or knowledge required to properly care for a specific breed. As a result, they make the heartbreaking decision to abandon the dog, leaving it to fend for itself or ending up in overcrowded animal shelters.

Abandonment is not the only issue these dogs face. Many are left malnourished and neglected due to the lack of proper care and attention from their owners. Dogs require a balanced diet, regular exercise/walks, grooming, and vet visits to ensure their well-being.

Mohapatra runs House of Stray Animals, a free vet dispensary, in Noida

Without these essential components, their physical health deteriorates, leading to malnourishment, weight loss, and a weakened immune system. Neglected dogs may also suffer from untreated injuries or diseases, further jeopardizing their overall health.

ALSO READ: ‘Don’t Judge A Pit Bull By One Stray Incident’

Perhaps one of the most unfair consequences of this epidemic is the labeling of these dogs as aggressive. When a dog is not properly socialized or trained, undesirable behavior issues can occur. It is essential to remember that aggression is not an inherent trait of any specific breed. Dogs labeled as aggressive are often victims of neglect, fear, or mistreatment. By abandoning these dogs and failing to educate themselves on proper training techniques, owners perpetuate the stereotype that certain breeds are inherently dangerous.

Prospective dog owners must take the time to research and learn about the breed they are interested in before bringing a dog into their home. Understanding a breed’s exercise requirements, grooming needs, and personality traits is essential in ensuring a successful and fulfilling relationship with a dog.

Enforcing stricter regulations on breeders can help ensure that they prioritize the ethical treatment and well-being of the animals. Mandatory information on breed traits, health issues, and specific needs should be provided to potential buyers. This approach can deter impulse purchases and encourage individuals to make informed decisions when choosing a dog.

By increasing awareness through education, promoting responsible pet ownership, and implementing legislation, we can address this issue and ensure a better future for both dogs and their owners. It is imperative that we prioritize the well-being of the dogs we bring into our lives and provide them with the love, care, and support they need and deserve.

As told to Deepti Sharma

Dog Lover

‘A Progressive Society Enjoys Life With Dogs, Other Pets’

By LokMarg

Kaveri Rana Bhardwaj, an animal rights activist, says all pet owners cannot be punished for the fault of a few unruly dogs

After a couple of incidences of dog bites inside housing societies, many residential associations across the National Capital Region (NCR) have started imposing their own rules and penalties for keeping dogs and other pets. There have been arbitrary notices that prohibit dog parents to enter the lift with their pets or walking them inside the gated compound. Let me make it clear that such prohibitory diktats under Articles of Association (AoA) are not permissible under the law.

Two recent incidents came to my notice where, in the first case, the housing unit management had fined dog parents after their pet urinated inside the society campus and, in the second case, for carrying their pet inside the elevator. After we reported these incidents as harassment to pet owners, the Greater Noida Authority sent a notice to the management concerned. I appreciate such action. A civic authority, municipality, police and administration must be sensitive to the needs of dog parents or else there will be conflicts.

I am also of the view that the issue of aggressive dogs, be they stray or pets, must also be dealt with strictly. A balance should be maintained. All pet owners cannot be punished for the fault of a few unruly dogs. The law of the land has adequate provisions to deal with these situation and these laws must be adhered to – both by the pet owners and the society managements.

There is a rule that any such dogs which show violent behavior must be sent to a government-approved shelter home for observation. If the dog continues to show signs of aggression, it can stay in the shelter as there is no time limit for that. Animal lovers and dog feeders must act within the legal boundaries. One cannot risk the life of human by stopping rescue vans to take away an aggressive dog.

ALSO READ: ‘Don’t Judge A Dog By One Stray Incident’

Early socialization not only with humans and children but with other pets also is very important for several dog breeds. Some guard dogs are large and protective; its owner needs to understand their need before adopting one. For example, walking an untrained German Shepherd Dog is not an easy task. There are a number of videos available online on how to train a guard dog. Physical and mental workout for such breeds is also important.

A guard dog which is chained all the time, whether in a flat or a farm, can become ferocious. They need strenuous exercise for their high level of energy to be burnt. As the saying goes, a tired dog is a happy dog. And a happy dog will keep his human parents and their neighbours happy.

Thus, my advice to pet parents is to know their dog. While in an open area, keep your pet buddy on a leash or chest harness and give him time and space for exercise. There is a lot to see and plenty to smell. Take different routes to allow a chance to your pet to meet new people and remember a wide variety of sites to remember. Try to dry their energy up during each walk. Enjoy the dog parenting responsibly.

(The narrator is former member of People For Animal and founder of SMART sanctuary)

As told to Deepti Sharma