“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” ― Mahatma Gandhi
Since the dawn of time, humans and animals have coexisted together. But throughout the years, the surge in purposeful animal cruelty, pet abandonment, discrimination against certain breeds, and several irrational superstitions have resulted in numerous animal atrocities and neglect manifested as stray animals.
According to a report published by the Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organizations, throughout the last decade, a total of 4,93,910 animals became victims of human crimes in India alone. Additionally the abandonment and neglect of pets have also increased.
Animal neglect is denying access to basic necessities like food, water, and shelter, which inevitably leads them to suffer, die, or be exposed to the unavoidable threat of death. Animal neglect therefore comes under the purview of animal cruelty.
Although there are few animal shelters in Mangalore, their effectiveness has been hampered by a lack of adequate infrastructure and facilities, as well as a shortage of qualified animal medical professionals/ Para medic/ veterinarians to treat them. In order to maintain control and guarantee that these shelters provide their services of aiding stray animals, there are not enough policies or redressal/ discussion forums.
Education around street dogs may significantly contribute to lowering stigmas and promoting ownership. Effective sterilisation and vaccination can lessen the number of stray animals on the streets.
Exposing children in schools about stray animal crisis and encouraging them to volunteer and promote awareness can aid in creating a society of responsive and compassionate people who are motivated to alter a broken and ineffective system. Furthermore making people aware of various animal protection laws can promote its effect as India has some stringent animal protection laws. Any infraction of these laws can result in fines, imprisonment, or both. To begin, there is the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, which serves as the foundation for all animal protection laws in India. Then there are the IPC sections 428 and 429 penalties for animal cruelty. In a nutshell, these laws protect animals from barbarity while also granting them the right to live.
Only when there is widespread concern about a problem will the government implement workable remedies through ongoing initiatives that can support the rehabilitation and provision of facilities for street animals in need.
Strays in need of treatment can benefit from having access to adequate vehicular facilities. Regular rescue missions by approved shelters or NGOs can therefore guarantee the rehabilitation of the stray in dire need .We all have a responsibility to protect our animal friends and provide aid to those in need. Miniscule acts of service such as keeping a pot of water, leftover food for animals, and reporting to the appropriate authorities or shelters for assistance when an animal in need is noticed are all part of helping and fostering a culture in which individuals care for the vulnerable segments of society.
Every single life, regardless of size, deserves a chance at life; stray animals are not exempt. Let us put an end to discrimination towards street dogs and cats and make the world a better place for our animal friends and future generations.
About the Author:
Sarosha Pais is Research Assistant at CHD Group and psychology professional.