Sending stray dogs to shelter homes is inhuman: Animal lovers stage protest

Lucknow: Stray animals have an equal right to live, and dogs have coexisted with humans for centuries, sending them to shelter homes is inhumane, said animal rights activists and animal lovers during a protest staged at Eco Garden on Sunday afternoon.

The demonstration had brought together animal lovers, feeders, NGOs, doctors, engineers, lawyers, veterinarians, government servants, politicians and citizens from across the city. Reports of force being used against peaceful protesters and dogs being caught in Delhi without due process had added to the unrest. The issue was significant enough for the Chief Justice of India to take note and refer the matter to a larger bench on August 14. The final order of the apex court is awaited.

Participants said dogs had long been part of the social and religious fabric. Legal experts pointed out that the order overlooked existing provisions under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act , 1960, and the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023.

"The dogs are a part of the ecosystem and society, eliminating or pounding them is not the solution. To address the problem scientific treatment including vaccination, sterilization, proper fooding and lodging should be provided. There should be an awareness campaign for making people aware of the protection and adoption of stray dogs," said Pooja Singh, an animal activist.

"Dogs often chase vehicles after trauma, and most child bite cases involve provocation. Even those who dislike dogs do not want them to suffer. The difference is only in approach. There should be an awareness drive for the behaviour of these animals," said Neha Zaidi, founder, Fairy Tales (Masoom foundation).

Concerns raised included disputed dog-bite statistics, with experts claiming parliamentary data and newspaper reports were in conflict.

The protesters demanded strict enforcement of sterilization and vaccination under ABC Rules, an end to forced relocation, responsible media reporting, public awareness drives on dog handling and vaccinations, and promotion of Indie adoptions.