Feeding Stray Dogs: Feeding stray dogs is an act most commonly practiced all over India. Animal lovers find it an act of compassion to ensure some food and water for street dogs. In the last few decades, this issue has led to disputes between different neighborhoods and housing societies. Some residents complain about safety, hygiene, and aggressive behavior of the dogs. So, it begs the question: Can feeding strays get you into legal trouble?
In the eyes of law, feeding stray dogs is no crime in India. According to the Animal Welfare Board of India and the Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2001, stray dogs have the right to live in an area and to be fed in that area. This right of citizens to feed stray dogs has been upheld in several judgments, including that of the Delhi High Court.
However, some restrictions apply; unsuitable feeding cannot create a hazard to the safety of the public; the local authority or the Resident Welfare Association can designate feeding areas and schedules for the feeding of stray dogs, keeping in view the need to balance the needs of both the animals and the community.
People will argue that feeding stray dogs in areas where children play may cause safety hazards indeed. Complaints were lodged about feeding stray dogs in schools or hospitals. In cases like these, if there is a true malady on the neighborhood or local authorities has to deal with complaints from citizens about obnoxious stray dogs or filthy conditions being created because of feeding them, probably they would be within their right to issue notices or fines as per the municipal bylaws. On rare occasions, when there have been cases of serious conflict, the police might have been called in, although the vast majority of these get resolved peacefully through negotiations or mediation.
Feed furmily, away from heavy public attention ones. This shall prevent accidents or unwanted entanglement.
Leaving feeding sites clean is a necessity to prevent pest infestation.
Avoid incurring aggressive behavior; regular food will tame it.
Also Read: Top 10 Vegetables That Are Harmful to Dogs
Promote vaccination and sterilization programs to contain the risks and population surge.
Feeding dogs in India is something legally protected and an act of compassion, but responsibility is the key. For your effort to be beneficial and not cause any legal nuisance, you must adopt the guidelines, thereby fostering peaceful coexistence between humans and street dogs.
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