Animal welfare concerned over the abandonment of 23 dog breeds
Animal welfare advocates are expressing concern over the potential abandonment of 23 dog breeds recently classified as "dangerous for human life" by the Center. This classification has led to a proposed ban on their import, sale, and breeding, which is currently being enforced by various states. Activists have noted an increase in cases where families are giving up dogs of these breeds, particularly pit bulls, rottweilers, and bulldogs.
Local authorities implementing breed-specific restrictions
In November 2022, Gurugram's district consumer disputes redressal forum directed the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) to prohibit 11 specific breeds. The directive is currently under review by the Punjab and Haryana high court. Similarly, the Ghaziabad Municipal Corporation (GMC) has imposed restrictions on families owning pit bulls, rottweilers, and Dogo Argentino. These local actions reflect a broader trend towards breed-specific legislation in response to the Center's classification.
Haryana government yet to acknowledge Center's ban
The Center's instructions for State and Union Territories to enforce the ban include breeds often perceived as aggressive. However, the Haryana government has yet to acknowledge the Center's recommended ban. A senior MCG official clarified that they can only enforce the Center's directive after receiving official notification from the state government, indicating a potential delay in implementation.
Ban complicates adoption efforts for dangerous breeds
Activists have numerous dogs of these breeds available for adoption but fear that potential adopters may be deterred once the ban takes effect. The Center's stipulation that these dogs must be registered with civic authorities and sterilized further complicates adoption efforts. This situation raises concerns about the future welfare of these animals, particularly if current owners decide to relinquish them due to the new regulations.
Experts call for clearer guidelines and public education
Surabhi Venkatesh, a canine behavior and nutrition coach, told The Times of India of the need for clearer guidelines on how authorities will monitor illegal breeding practices. She also highlighted that these breeds are often purchased as status symbols from unregulated breeders. Anjali Gopalan, founder of non-profit All Creatures Great and Small, stressed the importance of educating the public about the drawbacks of owning a non-native dog and the necessity of sterilization.
Concerns raised over fate of current owners and adopters
Manish Jain, who runs the animal shelter Fur Tail in Sohna, highlighted to the Times of India that the Center's directive overlooks the situation of current owners of these breeds. He raised questions about how individuals can adopt these breeds from shelters without municipal registration. Additionally, he voiced concerns about the appropriateness of large dog breeds in small living spaces, underscoring another potential challenge for current and prospective owners.
Responsible pet ownership
India's decision to ban 23 "dangerous" dog breeds marks a move towards responsible pet ownership. This isn't unprecedented; the United States of America has banned pit bulls from 20 states. Such actions reflect concerns over public safety and raise questions about the breed-specific legislation's efficacy in addressing issues of aggression and pet management. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India has appealed to the government to safeguard vulnerable dog breeds often exploited by criminal elements for illegal dogfighting.
