PUDUCHERRY: Following a recent Supreme Court directive on vaccinating and releasing stray dogs to their original habitats, the Puducherry Department of Animal Husbandry is urging local communities to embrace a balanced strategy. This approach aims to safeguard public safety while also prioritizing the welfare of these animals.
An advisory from the Department clarifies that non-aggressive and non-rabid stray dogs, once treated, should be returned to their familiar territories. However, any dogs showing signs of rabies suspicion must be kept under careful observation in designated kennels managed by local authorities.
Moving forward, municipal bodies are tasked with establishing specific areas for feeding stray dogs, and feeding outside these zones will be strictly prohibited. Residents are expected to adhere to these new regulations by feeding animals exclusively within these designated areas.
A senior official from the Animal Husbandry Department highlighted that while compassionate individuals can adopt sterilized and vaccinated dogs from shelters, it’s crucial to ensure these adopted pets do not find their way back to the streets. The official also emphasized the necessity for an adequate number of well-equipped dog shelters, complete with sufficient staff for sterilization, deworming, and immunization programs.
To further support these initiatives, the Department has instructed local bodies to establish a dedicated helpline for reporting any violations. Communities are encouraged to educate themselves on the legal guidelines and work collaboratively with authorities to ensure these new protocols are effectively implemented.
Ultimately, while prioritizing public safety, it remains vital to treat stray dogs with compassion and respect, acknowledging their inherent value. The Union Territory of Puducherry Animal Welfare Board, alongside the Puducherry District Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, will oversee and ensure humane treatment for all community dogs within the region, the official concluded.