Advocate Rapolu Bhaskar has submitted a representation to the concerned authorities, highlighting the urgent need to address the issue of street dog management in urban and rural areas. He pointed out that the increasing population of stray dogs has created significant challenges for public safety, hygiene, and animal welfare. While street dogs are part of the urban ecosystem, their unmanaged presence has led to frequent incidents of dog bites, aggressive behavior, and the spread of diseases like rabies, causing widespread concern among citizens.
Bhaskar noted that public safety is one of the most pressing issues related to stray dogs. Many localities have reported an alarming rise in dog bite cases, with children and elderly people being particularly vulnerable. Packs of stray dogs often exhibit aggressive behavior, especially during late hours, creating a sense of fear among residents. The lack of timely medical intervention and anti-rabies vaccinations for victims exacerbates the problem, leaving affected individuals at risk of severe health complications.
Another concern raised in the representation is the impact of stray dogs on community hygiene and sanitation. Stray animals, often scavenging in garbage dumps, contribute to littering and disrupt waste management systems. This creates unhygienic conditions, particularly in residential areas, and increases the risk of zoonotic diseases spreading among humans. Bhaskar emphasized that maintaining cleanliness and public health is becoming increasingly difficult without a structured approach to managing the street dog population.
At the same time, Bhaskar stressed the importance of humane treatment for stray dogs. He pointed out that these animals often suffer from malnutrition, injuries, and diseases due to neglect. Addressing their welfare is as important as ensuring public safety. Humane measures such as sterilization and vaccination not only help control the stray dog population but also improve their quality of life.
In his representation, Bhaskar proposed several actionable measures for effective street dog management. He urged the authorities to implement large-scale Animal Birth Control (ABC) programs, focusing on sterilization and vaccination to control the population and prevent the spread of rabies. He also suggested setting up dedicated shelters for injured or diseased stray dogs, where they can receive proper medical care and rehabilitation.
Additionally, Bhaskar called for increased public awareness about street dog management. He recommended educational programs to teach people how to coexist with stray dogs safely and responsibly. Awareness campaigns could also help dispel myths about rabies and encourage community participation in sterilization and vaccination initiatives.
Another key recommendation was the establishment of grievance redressal systems. Bhaskar proposed setting up helplines and rapid-response teams to address complaints about aggressive or injured dogs promptly and humanely. This would ensure that the concerns of residents are heard and addressed without resorting to inhumane practices.
In conclusion, Bhaskar emphasized the need for a balanced approach that prioritizes both public safety and animal welfare. He argued that mass culling or inhumane treatment of stray dogs is neither ethical nor effective in the long term. Instead, sustainable solutions such as sterilization, vaccination, and community engagement are necessary to create a safe and harmonious coexistence between humans and animals. Bhaskar’s representation calls for immediate action and dedicated resources to address this issue comprehensively, ensuring the well-being of both citizens and street dogs