PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
Pet owners need to act responsibly towards their pets, particularly dogs, to avoid serious incidents. This advice comes from both local residents and experts following a recent incident in Dehradun, where a dog owner allegedly assaulted a lawyer with a sword and a tile after the lawyer intervened to stop the dog from defecating outside his home. The lawyer suffered significant injuries in the attack and was hospitalised. In light of this event, many community members have voiced their concerns and stated that pet ownership should entail responsible behaviour rather than simply serving as a status symbol.
Jagindra Chandapuri said that he has repeatedly seen pet owners take their dogs outside to defecate and urinate in front of someone’s house, resulting in littering. This behaviour sometimes leads to conflicts. Given these situations, he emphasised that it is the responsibility of pet owners to act responsibly by not littering the streets or other properties. Instead, he recommended using bags or pick-up tools to clean up after their dogs when they relieve themselves outside.
Similarly, another resident Manoj Pal said that in his neighbourhood, many pet owners also let their dogs out for defecation and urination, which is acceptable, but they must also take responsibility for cleaning up afterward. Unfortunately, many don’t seem to realise this obligation. He stated that a pet owner can only truly be seen as responsible when they fully understand and accept all the duties that come with pet ownership.
Numerous residents have voiced similar concerns. A representative of the Animal Welfare Board of India, Rubina Nitin Iyer stated, “This incident could exemplify various factors, including conflicts between neighbours and other issues. However, it is indeed unacceptable for pets to defecate and urinate littering private properties or public roads. Pet owners should recognise their responsibilities and clean up after their pets each time they go outside, ensuring cleanliness and maintaining the environment. Further, pet owners should also be responsible for their dogs’ vaccinations, sterilisation and other health-related needs.”
