In India, where the condition of people living on the streets is so horrifying, the condition of stray animals is very unlikely to be on the government’s list of priorities. So it becomes all the more important for us people to address this issue. The plight of stray animals, especially dogs, is a horrible thing to witness. We have already discussed Zoonotic diseases in the past and stray animals could be carriers especially given the bad conditions they are in, so even for this reason we need to ensure they’re not just left in poor conditions on the street.
This problem is not just in rural areas. The national capital itself is severely affected. In Delhi, the streets are littered with stray dogs. They are at every roadside. Besides starvation and dehydration, they are also the victims of human cruelty. Walking in the city, you may pass a dog that is apparently sleeping on the pavement, but soon you will notice that it’s dead.
WHAT CAN WE DO?
1. Rather than buying dogs from a pet shop, adopt them from animal shelters or the street. And not just the puppies, care for the old ones as well.
2. Feed the stray animals. Make sure the food and water is not contaminated.
3. Walk and play with them. A little affection goes a long way.
4. If possible, adopt two animals of the same species. Animals need the companionship of other animals as well.
These poor creatures have an equal right to live a good life as we do. So do your part and make their lives less miserable!