‘Why Penalise All Pet Parents For The Fault Of A Few Bad Apples?’

Tushar Srivastava, a pet parent, says a blanket ban on supposedly ferocious dog breeds is akin to throwing baby out with the bathwater. His views:

As a devoted parent to a Rottweiler, lovingly called Gabbar, the recent ban on 23 dog breeds has left me deeply troubled. This blanket prohibition not only unfairly targets responsible pet owners but also promotes misconceptions about certain breeds, casting a shadow on the future of canine companionship. As I am trying to recover through all-round stigmatization and prejudice against select pets, I implore society to reconsider its approach to our furry companions.

This ban not only penalizes responsible pet parents like me but also threatens to erase these majestic creatures from our communities. It is heartbreaking to witness the misguided belief that banning breeds will solve behavioral issues, as it neglects the root cause of canine misbehavior and neglects the responsibility of owners. Such an approach is akin to throwing the baby out with the bathwater.

The imposition of fines on pet owners whose dogs misbehave is a reasonable measure to encourage responsible pet ownership. However, banning entire breeds only serves to perpetuate fear and discrimination. It is akin to punishing an entire classroom for the actions of a few disruptive students. Instead, we should focus on education, training, and support for pet owners to foster positive relationships between dogs and their communities.

Moreover, the notion that certain breeds are inherently dangerous is not only scientifically unfounded but also unjust. Rottweilers, like any other breed, thrive in loving environments with proper socialization and training. They are not born aggressive; rather, aggression is often a result of neglect, abuse, or lack of socialization. By condemning entire breeds, we risk endorsing stereotypes and depriving our future generations of the joy of canine companionship.

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As a dog parent, I refuse to let fear dictate my love for the furry companions. My Rottweiler is not a threat to society; he is a beloved member of my family, showering us with unwavering loyalty and affection. He deserves to be judged based on his individual temperament and behavior, not on misguided perceptions of its breed.

Furthermore, the consequences of a blanket breed ban extend far beyond the realm of pet ownership. By prohibiting certain breeds, we send a message to future generations that dogs are to be feared and avoided rather than being embraced as loving buddies. We risk depriving children of the opportunity to form meaningful bonds with these incredible animals and instead perpetuate a culture of fear and mistrust.

Instead of resorting to draconian measures, let us work together to promote responsible pet ownership and create communities where all dogs are welcome. This includes providing resources for training and socialization, implementing stricter penalties for irresponsible owners, and challenging harmful stereotypes about certain breeds.

In conclusion, the recent ban on 23 dog breeds is not only unjust but also counterproductive. As a Rottweiler parent, I urge society to reconsider its approach to pet policies and embrace a more compassionate and rational approach. Let us not condemn entire breeds based on fear and prejudice but instead celebrate the diversity and beauty of our canine companions.

Together, we can build communities where all dogs, regardless of breed, are valued and cherished members of society.

As told to Deepti Sharma