Sir,

With reference to the readers’ views about dogs in parks, as a pet dog owner of several decades, I would like to raise a few points. For many of us, dogs are family. Also I would suppose other species have as much right to this earth as humans.

It is understandable that residents are peeved that roads  and common areas are used by their neighbours as dog toilets. As dog owners we need to be responsible and pick up dog poops. This is mandated in many countries. All it needs is a plastic bag inverted over our hand. Biodegradable bags for pet excreta disposal are easily available.

Dog owners also have to be responsible about walking their dogs quietly so that they do not disturb other walkers or dogs. Street dogs generally know how to keep out of the way unlike some pet dogs.

On the part of Mysuru City Corporation, if exclusive bins labelled dog can be placed at intervals for collection of these bags, again a practice in many countries, it will encourage pet owners to pick up the excreta.

As a senior citizen myself, I do understand the need for seniors to have a quiet space where they can walk unhindered. This can be addressed by MCC by reserving one or more parks exclusively for the use of dogs and their owners.

The solution is simple provided both dog owners and MCC address it together.

– Dr. Usha Srinath, Saraswathipuram, 16.4.2023

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