The Truth About Being a Dog Owner in India: Risks and Realities

India is a country of contrasts, where ancient traditions coexist with modern aspirations, where rich diversity is celebrated but also challenged, where rapid development brings opportunities but also problems. For dog owners in India, these contrasts create a unique and complex situation, where they have to face various social and legal challenges, as well as risks to their own and their dogs’ well-being.

Social Challenges

One of the main social challenges that dog owners in India face is the lack of awareness and acceptance of dogs as pets in many parts of the country. While dogs have been domesticated for thousands of years in India, and have played important roles in religion, mythology, and history, they are still seen by many people as dirty, dangerous, or even unholy animals. This is especially true in rural areas, where dogs are often kept as guard dogs or livestock herders, and are rarely treated with affection or care. Even in urban areas, where pet ownership is more common and trendy, many people still have negative attitudes towards dogs, and may harass, abuse, or even kill them.

Dog owners in India also have to deal with the stigma and discrimination that comes with owning a dog, especially if they belong to a minority or marginalized group. For example, some people may associate dogs with lower castes, or with foreign or western influences, and may look down upon or ostracize dog owners for breaking the norms or traditions of their community. Some dog owners may also face pressure from their family or friends to give up their dogs, or to choose a more suitable or acceptable pet, such as a cow, a bird, or a fish.

Another social challenge that dog owners in India face is the lack of infrastructure and facilities for dogs in many places. For instance, there are few or no public parks, gardens, or playgrounds where dogs can run, play, or socialize with other dogs. There are also few or no pet shops, veterinary clinics, grooming salons, boarding kennels, or training centers where dog owners can access the products and services they need for their dogs. Moreover, there are few or no public transport options, hotels, restaurants, or other establishments that allow or accommodate dogs, making it difficult for dog owners to travel or enjoy leisure activities with their dogs.

Legal Challenges

Another major challenge that dog owners in India face is the lack of clear and consistent laws and regulations regarding dogs and their welfare. While India has some of the most progressive and comprehensive animal welfare laws in the world, such as the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act of 1960, and the Animal Birth Control Rules of 2001, they are often poorly implemented, enforced, or followed by the authorities and the public. For example, many people still practice illegal and cruel activities, such as dog fighting, dog baiting, dog poisoning, dog culling, or dog meat consumption, without facing any legal consequences. Many people also violate the laws that protect the rights of street dogs, such as the right to be sterilized, vaccinated, and fed, and the right to not be relocated, harmed, or killed.

Dog owners in India also have to deal with the ambiguity and inconsistency of the laws and regulations that govern pet ownership and management. For instance, there are no uniform or standardized rules for licensing, registration, identification, or vaccination of pet dogs, and different states, cities, or municipalities may have different or conflicting requirements or procedures. There are also no clear or consistent rules for dog breeding, selling, buying, or adopting, and many people engage in unethical or illegal practices, such as puppy mills, backyard breeding, or online trading, without any regulation or oversight. Furthermore, there are no clear or consistent rules for dog behavior, control, or liability, and different authorities or courts may have different or conflicting interpretations or judgments on issues such as dog barking, dog biting, dog damage, or dog compensation.

Risks

The third major challenge that dog owners in India face is the various risks that threaten their own and their dogs’ health and safety. One of the most serious risks is the prevalence and spread of rabies, a fatal viral disease that affects both humans and animals, and is transmitted mainly through dog bites. According to the World Health Organization, India accounts for about 36% of the global human rabies deaths, with an estimated 20,000 people dying from the disease every year. Most of these deaths are caused by unvaccinated or stray dogs, and most of the victims are children or poor people. While the government and various organizations have been trying to control and eliminate rabies through mass vaccination and sterilization of dogs, the problem still persists due to the lack of resources, coordination, and cooperation.

Another risk that dog owners in India face is the exposure and susceptibility to various diseases and parasites that affect dogs, such as distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis, mange, ticks, fleas, worms, or scabies. These diseases and parasites can cause serious illness, suffering, or death to dogs, and some of them can also infect or affect humans. While these diseases and parasites can be prevented or treated with proper vaccination, medication, or hygiene, many dog owners in India lack the awareness, access, or affordability to provide adequate care for their dogs, and may end up neglecting or abandoning them.

A third risk that dog owners in India face is the possibility and probability of accidents, injuries, or attacks involving their dogs. Due to the lack of infrastructure and facilities for dogs, many dog owners in India have to walk their dogs on busy streets, roads, or highways, where they may encounter traffic, vehicles, or other hazards. Due to the lack of laws and regulations for dogs, many dog owners in India have to deal with irresponsible, aggressive, or hostile dogs or dog owners, who may cause or provoke fights, conflicts, or disputes. Due to the lack of awareness and acceptance of dogs, many dog owners in India have to face violent, abusive, or hateful people or groups, who may harm or kill their dogs for various reasons, such as fear, prejudice, or revenge.

Solutions

Despite the challenges and risks that dog owners in India face, there are also some possible solutions and strategies that can help them overcome or reduce them. One of the most important solutions is to educate and inform the public and the authorities about the benefits and rights of dogs, and the responsibilities and duties of dog owners. This can be done through various means, such as campaigns, workshops, seminars, posters, flyers, or social media, and can involve various stakeholders, such as animal welfare organizations, veterinarians, celebrities, or influencers. The main goal of this solution is to change the perception and attitude of the people towards dogs, and to promote a culture of compassion, respect, and coexistence.

Another important solution is to improve and enforce the laws and regulations regarding dogs and their welfare, and to hold the violators and offenders accountable and liable. This can be done through various actions, such as lobbying, petitioning, protesting, suing, or reporting, and can involve various authorities, such as the government, the police, the courts, or the media. The main goal of this solution is to protect the rights and interests of dogs and dog owners, and to prevent and punish the crimes and abuses against them.

A third important solution is to provide and support the infrastructure and facilities for dogs and their care, and to make them accessible and affordable to all dog owners. This can be done through various initiatives, such as building, funding, donating, or volunteering, and can involve various entities, such as the private sector, the public sector, the civil society, or the individual. The main goal of this solution is to improve the quality and quantity of the products and services that dogs and dog owners need, and to make them available and convenient to them.

The History and Diversity of Dog Breeds in India

India has a long and rich history of dog breeding and domestication, dating back to the ancient times, when dogs were used for hunting, guarding, herding, or companionship. Some of the oldest and most native dog breeds in India are:

Indian Pariah Dog: Also known as the Indie Dog or the Desi Dog, this is the most common and widespread dog breed in India, and is believed to be one of the oldest and purest dog breeds in the world. They are medium-sized, short-haired, and come in various colors and patterns. They are highly adaptable, intelligent, and loyal, and are often found as street dogs or village dogs, but can also make excellent pets if socialized and trained properly.

Indian Mastiff: Also known as the Bully Kutta or the Alangu Mastiff, this is a large and powerful dog breed that originated in the Punjab region of India and Pakistan, and was used for guarding, fighting, or hunting. They have a muscular and sturdy body, a broad and wrinkled head, and a short and smooth coat. They are very loyal, protective, and courageous, but can also be aggressive, dominant, and stubborn, and require a lot of exercise, training, and socialization.

Rampur Greyhound: This is a sleek and graceful dog breed that originated in the Rampur region of Uttar Pradesh, and was used for hunting and racing. They have a long and narrow head, a deep chest, and a short and smooth coat. They are very fast, agile, and endurance, and can chase down prey such as jackals, foxes, or hares. They are also loyal, affectionate, and independent, but can be aloof, reserved, or aggressive with strangers or other dogs.

Chippiparai: This is a slender and elegant dog breed that originated in the Tamil Nadu state of India, and was used for hunting and guarding. They have a long and pointed muzzle, a curved tail, and a short and glossy coat. They are very intelligent, alert, and loyal, and can adapt to different terrains and climates. They are also very active, energetic, and playful, but can be shy, timid, or nervous with unfamiliar people or situations.

Bakharwal Dog: This is a large and fluffy dog breed that originated in the Himalayan region of India, and was used for herding and protecting livestock. They have a thick and wooly coat, a broad and flat head, and a curled tail. They are very brave, faithful, and devoted, and can fend off predators such as leopards, bears, or wolves. They are also very gentle, friendly, and loving, but can be stubborn, dominant, or territorial with other dogs or animals.

These are just some of the many dog breeds that are native to India, and that reflect the diversity and richness of the country’s culture and history. There are also many other dog breeds that are popular or common in India, such as the Labrador Retriever, the German Shepherd, the Pug, the Golden Retriever, or the Beagle, that have been imported or introduced from other countries, and that have adapted or assimilated to the Indian environment and lifestyle. 🐕

The Cultural and Religious Significance of Dogs in India

Dogs have a special place in the culture and religion of India, and are revered and respected by many people for their qualities and roles. For example, dogs are associated with various gods and goddesses in Hinduism, such as:

Bhairava: A fierce manifestation of Shiva, who is the guardian and protector of the sacred sites and the devotees. He is often accompanied by a black dog, who is his faithful servant and messenger, and who helps him in his tasks and missions.

Dattatreya: A sage and a teacher, who is considered to be an incarnation of the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. He is often shown with four dogs, who represent the four Vedas, the sacred scriptures of Hinduism, and who also signify his universal and omniscient nature.

Kali: The goddess of time, death, and destruction, who is the consort of Shiva and the mother of the universe. She is sometimes depicted with a dog’s head, or with a dog as her mount, which signifies her fierce and fearsome aspect, and also her compassion and mercy.

Dogs are also celebrated and honored in various festivals and occasions in India, such as:

Diwali: The festival of lights, which marks the victory of good over evil, and the return of Lord Rama from exile. On this day, many people worship and feed dogs, especially street dogs, as a way of showing gratitude and respect to them, and also to seek their blessings and protection.

Kukur Tihar: The second day of the five-day Tihar festival, which is celebrated by the Nepali people in India and Nepal. On this day, dogs are worshipped and decorated with garlands, vermilion, and tikka, and are offered food and treats, as a way of acknowledging and honoring their friendship and loyalty, and also to appease Yama, the god of death, who is believed to have a dog as his gatekeeper.

Basant Panchami: The festival of spring, which marks the arrival of the new season and the end of the winter. On this day, many people fly kites, and also feed and play with dogs, as a way of expressing joy and happiness, and also to welcome the warmth and the sunshine.

The Best Practices and Tips for Dog Care and Training in India

Owning a dog in India requires a lot of care and training, as well as a lot of love and patience. Here are some of the best practices and tips for dog care and training in India, that can help dog owners and their dogs have a healthy and happy relationship:

Choose the right dog for your lifestyle and environment: Before getting a dog, it is important to consider your lifestyle and environment, and to choose a dog that suits your needs and preferences. For example, if you live in a small apartment or a crowded city, you may want to avoid large or energetic dog breeds, and opt for smaller or calmer ones. If you live in a hot or humid climate, you may want to avoid thick or long-haired dog breeds, and opt for short or smooth-haired ones. If you have children or other pets, you may want to avoid aggressive or dominant dog breeds, and opt for friendly or gentle ones.

Provide proper nutrition and hydration: Dogs need a balanced and nutritious diet, that provides them with the essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, that they need for their growth and development. It is advisable to feed your dog with high-quality dog food, that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level, and to avoid giving them human food, especially spicy, salty, or sweet food, that may harm their health or digestion. It is also important to provide your dog with clean and fresh water, that is available at all times, and to avoid giving them milk, tea, coffee, or alcohol, that may cause dehydration or intoxication.

Provide proper vaccination and medication: Dogs need regular vaccination and medication, that protect them from various diseases and parasites, that may affect their health or well-being. It is advisable to consult a veterinarian, and to follow their recommendations and schedule, for vaccinating and deworming your dog, and to keep a record of their vaccination and medication history. It is also important to check your dog for any signs or symptoms of illness or infection, such as fever, cough, diarrhea, vomiting, or skin problems, and to seek medical attention if needed.

Provide proper grooming and hygiene: Dogs need regular grooming and hygiene, that keep them clean and comfortable, and that prevent any problems or issues with their skin, coat, ears, eyes, teeth, or nails. It is advisable to brush your dog’s coat daily, to remove any dirt, mats, or tangles, and to bathe your dog once a month, or as needed, with mild dog shampoo and warm water, and to dry them thoroughly. It is also important to clean your dog’s ears, eyes, teeth, and nails, with appropriate tools and products, and to trim their nails if they are too long or sharp.

Provide proper exercise and stimulation: Dogs need regular exercise and stimulation, that keep them fit and active, and that prevent any boredom or frustration, that may lead to behavioral or psychological problems. It is advisable to walk your dog at least twice a day, for at least 30 minutes each time, and to provide them with enough space and time to run, play, or explore. It is also important to provide your dog with toys, games, or puzzles, that challenge their physical and mental abilities, and that keep them entertained and engaged.

Provide proper socialization and training: Dogs need regular socialization and training, that help them learn and understand the rules and expectations of their environment and society, and that help them develop and maintain a positive and respectful relationship with their owners and others. It is advisable to expose your dog to different people, animals, places, and situations, from an early age, and to reward them with praise, treats, or affection, for showing calm, friendly, or confident behavior. It is also important to teach your dog basic commands, such as sit, stay, come, or heel, and to correct them with a firm, clear, or consistent voice, for showing unwanted, inappropriate, or aggressive behavior.

The Success Stories and Inspirational Examples of Dog Owners and Activists in India

There are many dog owners and activists in India, who have shown their love and passion for dogs, and who have made a difference for them and their welfare. Here are some of the success stories and inspirational examples of dog owners and activists in India, that can motivate and encourage others to follow their footsteps:

Sudha Narayanan: She is the founder and director of Charlie’s Animal Rescue Centre (CARE), a non-profit organization that rescues, rehabilitates, and rehomes stray and abandoned dogs in Bangalore. She started the organization in 2013, with the help of her husband and a few volunteers, and named it after her first rescued dog, Charlie, who was a paraplegic. Since then, she has rescued and cared for over 10,000 dogs, and has provided them with medical treatment, shelter, food, and love. She has also created awareness and education programs, to promote animal welfare and adoption, and to reduce animal cruelty and suffering.

Rakesh Shukla: He is the founder and CEO of The Voice of Stray Dogs (VOSD), a non-governmental organization that provides sanctuary and care for stray and injured dogs in Bangalore. He started the organization in 2012, after he witnessed the brutal killing of a stray dog by a mob, and decided to dedicate his life and resources to saving and protecting dogs. Since then, he has rescued and sheltered over 7,000 dogs, and has provided them with medical care, sterilization, vaccination, and love. He has also created a mobile app, called VOSD Dog Care, that helps dog owners and caretakers to access information and services for their dogs.

Pratima Devi: She is a ragpicker and a dog lover, who lives in a slum in New Delhi, and who takes care of over 400 stray dogs in her area. She started feeding and caring for the dogs in 1985, after she lost her husband and children, and found solace and companionship in them. Since then, she has devoted her life and income to providing food, shelter, and love for the dogs, and has earned the nickname of “Dog Lady of Delhi”. She has also received support and recognition from various organizations and individuals, who have helped her with funds, supplies, and medical care for the dogs.

The Challenges and Opportunities for Dog Adoption and Rescue in India

One of the most noble and rewarding ways of owning a dog in India is to adopt or rescue one from the streets or shelters, where they face a harsh and uncertain fate. However, this also comes with its own challenges and opportunities, that dog owners and lovers should be aware of and prepared for. Some of the challenges and opportunities for dog adoption and rescue in India are:

The availability and accessibility of dogs for adoption and rescue: One of the challenges for dog adoption and rescue in India is the availability and accessibility of dogs for adoption and rescue, as there are many factors that affect the supply and demand of dogs in the country. For example, there are millions of stray dogs in India, but not all of them are suitable or eligible for adoption or rescue, as some of them may be sick, injured, aggressive, or feral. There are also many shelters and organizations that rescue and rehabilitate dogs, but not all of them are reliable or reputable, as some of them may be overcrowded, understaffed, or unhygienic. Moreover, there are many people who want to adopt or rescue dogs, but not all of them are able or willing to do so, as some of them may face financial, logistical, or personal constraints or barriers. Therefore, finding and matching the right dog with the right owner can be a difficult and daunting task, that requires a lot of research, patience, and luck.

One of the opportunities for dog adoption and rescue in India is the availability and accessibility of dogs for adoption and rescue, as there are many resources and platforms that facilitate and support the process of dog adoption and rescue in the country. For example, there are many websites, apps, or social media pages, that showcase and promote the dogs that are available for adoption or rescue, and that connect and communicate with the potential adopters or rescuers. There are also many events, campaigns, or drives, that raise awareness and interest about dog adoption and rescue, and that provide opportunities and incentives for people to adopt or rescue dogs. Furthermore, there are many networks, communities, or groups, that offer guidance and assistance for dog adoption and rescue, and that provide information and advice for dog owners and lovers.

The suitability and compatibility of dogs for adoption and rescue: Another challenge for dog adoption and rescue in India is the suitability and compatibility of dogs for adoption and rescue, as there are many factors that affect the personality and behavior of dogs in the country. For example, many dogs that are up for adoption or rescue may have a history or background of trauma, abuse, or neglect, that may affect their physical or mental health, and that may cause them to have issues or problems such as anxiety, fear, aggression, or separation. Many dogs that are up for adoption or rescue may also have a different or unfamiliar breed, size, or appearance, that may affect their adaptability or suitability to the environment or lifestyle of the owner, and that may cause them to have difficulties or challenges such as training, grooming, or socializing. Therefore, choosing and adopting or rescuing a dog can be a risky and unpredictable decision, that requires a lot of commitment, responsibility, and understanding.

Another opportunity for dog adoption and rescue in India is the suitability and compatibility of dogs for adoption and rescue, as there are many benefits and advantages of adopting or rescuing a dog in the country. For example, many dogs that are up for adoption or rescue may have a unique or special character, quality, or skill, that may make them more lovable, loyal, or helpful, and that may enrich the life and happiness of the owner. Many dogs that are up for adoption or rescue may also have a grateful or appreciative attitude, behavior, or expression, that may make them more affectionate, devoted, or faithful, and that may strengthen the bond and relationship between the dog and the owner. Therefore, adopting or rescuing a dog can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, that requires a lot of love, care, and respect.

Conclusion

Owning a dog in India is not an easy or simple task, but a challenging and complex one, that requires a lot of commitment, dedication, and sacrifice. Dog owners in India have to face various social and legal challenges, as well as risks to their own and their dogs’ health and safety, that may affect their happiness and well-being. However, dog owners in India also have some possible solutions and strategies that can help them overcome or reduce these challenges and risks, and that can improve their situation and condition. By educating and informing the public and the authorities, by improving and enforcing the laws and regulations, and by providing and supporting the infrastructure and facilities, dog owners in India can make a difference for themselves and their dogs, and can enjoy a better and safer life with their furry friends. 🐶

Moreover, dog owners in India also have some opportunities and options that can help them own a dog in a more noble and rewarding way, and that can make a difference for the dogs and their welfare. By adopting or rescuing a dog from the streets or shelters, dog owners in India can save a life and give a home to a dog that needs and deserves it, and can also gain a friend and a companion that will love and appreciate them. By learning and understanding the history and diversity of dog breeds in India, the cultural and religious significance of dogs in India, the best practices and tips for dog care and training in India, and the success stories and inspirational examples of dog owners and activists in India, dog owners in India can appreciate and celebrate the beauty and richness of owning a dog in India, and can also inspire and encourage others to do the same. 🐾

Reference Links:

• 14 India Pet Ownership Statistics to Know in 2024 | Pet Keen: This source provides some statistics and facts about pet ownership in India, such as the number of pet dogs and cats, the percentage of people who own pets, and the reasons for adopting or relinquishing pets.
• 12 India Pet Industry Statistics to Know in 2024: Trends, Market Size & FAQ | Pet Keen: This source provides some statistics and facts about the pet industry in India, such as the market size and growth, the pet food and veterinary sectors, and the exotic animal trade.
• Is it permitted to have dogs in India? – BuzzSharer.com: This source provides some information and insights about the legal framework and regulations for dog ownership in India, such as the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, the Animal Birth Control Rules, and the municipal and state laws.
• Is it illegal to keep dogs in India? – BuzzSharer.com: This source provides some information and insights about the breed-specific legislation and restrictions for dog ownership in India, such as the ban on certain breeds, the registration and identification requirements, and the liability and compensation issues.