Sir,

Of late, many concerned citizens of Mysuru have been expressing their anguish over the growing menace of stray animals in the city.

We often encounter stray horses, cattle, dogs and pigs on the roads. Among these, stray horses are a few and can be easily managed. Most of the stray cattle and pigs belong to owners who release them during the day to fend for themselves. These owners need to be identified, penalised and educated on proper animal care.

Most stray dogs, on the other hand, are community dogs. They typically remain within a limited area and rely on feeding by kind-hearted individuals. They are often seen near bakeries and meat shops.

These dogs tend to roam in packs and chase vehicles, especially at night. This poses a significant threat to early-morning and late-night walkers, two-wheeler riders and particularly to the elderly, women and children.

So, how can we control their population?

In most Western countries, euthanasia (mercy killing) is practised for ownerless dogs. For instance, nearly 27 lakh shelter animals are euthanised annually in the United States alone. Imagine the global figures!

In India, however, euthanising stray animals is prohibited under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960. Sections 428 and 429 of the Indian Penal Code also make the killing of stray dogs illegal.

Therefore, our policy is CNR (Catch, Neuter and Release) where sterilised dogs are returned to their original location after being vaccinated against rabies. This humane approach, though commendable, will not yield the desired results unless implemented effectively.

Currently, the Animal Birth Control (ABC) programme is operational in select cities but faces numerous challenges, including a lack of funds, trained personnel and apathy from those involved. So, what is the solution?

1. Effective implementation of ABC: This must be carried out on a war-footing nationwide as a priority. Since anti-rabies vaccines are administered during sterilisation, this will also reduce rabies incidence. The Animal Husbandry Department should collaborate with animal welfare organisations to ensure the programme’s success. However, even with proper implementation, visible results may take a decade, as sterilised dogs can live for 10-12 more years.

2. Promote coexistence: The general public must be educated about coexisting with all living beings. The anthropocentric view that “this planet is meant only for humans” must change.

3. Adopt, don’t shop: Encouraging the adoption of Indian breeds (Indies) can help reduce the stray population.                              Incentives for adopters could be considered.

4. Media advocacy: Media should highlight the positive aspects of pet parenting, interacting with animals and caring for other living beings. They should provide extensive coverage to NGOs and individual volunteers working for the welfare of strays.

5. Dog parks and shelters: City corporations should identify areas to establish dog pounds. A designated space could house old or disabled animals, where they would be cared for by the authorities.

6. Animal welfare education: Children should be taught empathy and compassion for animals from a young age. Including animal welfare topics in environmental studies curricula will foster a more compassionate society.

7. Citizen forums: Animal lovers and philanthropists could form forums to oversee the effective implementation of the ABC programme in their neighbourhoods. Mysureans can set an example for other cities in this regard.

—Dr. C.S. Arun, My Pet Hospital

Gokulam

20.11.2024