On street dogs and dog bite cases

Sir,

This refers to the news item titled ‘16,789 dog bite cases in Mysuru district this year’ published in Star of Mysore dated Nov. 7.

I am an animal lover and dogs have always been my best friends. However, I do agree that street dogs can sometimes be a nuisance — and yes, they do bite.

The Supreme Court of India has passed an order directing government and public institutions to remove stray dogs from hospital and school premises. Though saddened, I agree with the Court’s decision to withdraw the blanket allowance for stray or feral dogs and cats to freely roam such places.

That said, I would like to propose another approach — something I learnt from my late wife and our two daughters. Adopt strays or feral dogs as pets and give them a forever home. Avoid buying exotic breeds. I can assure you that these strays, especially when adopted as pups, grow into loyal, loving and protective companions.

The mothers of the pups we adopted were spayed and we ensured the same for six female dogs (and one male, if I recall correctly). This simple act helped prevent further breeding and reduced the number of strays on the streets.

Take a dog off the street and give it a forever home — you will never regret it. And yes, the Government must also take responsibility by providing shelter and care for dogs that are removed from the streets, ensuring they live with dignity until their natural end.

– George Rego, Mysuru, 8.11.2025

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