Feeding stray dogs is good, but it should not create chaos, endanger public: HC

The High Court of Karnataka has said that while showing sympathy towards stray dogs by feeding them is important, it should not lead to chaos and endanger the public. Chief Justice Prasanna B Varale and Justice Krishna S Dixit, presiding over a public interest litigation (PIL) regarding the alleged delay in implementing the Animal Welfare Board's guidelines by the state government, stated that citizens who feed dogs have a duty to ensure that their actions do not cause inconvenience or health risks to others.

The High Court expressed its concern over the government's delay in responding to the PIL and directed them to rectify their behavior within three weeks by filing objections. It cautioned that if there is any further delay, the court may have to take action against the government.

During the hearing, the court acknowledged that citizens also have a stake in this issue and highlighted the negative consequences of feeding animals in unauthorized areas, such as health hazards and other problems. The court noted that citizens who feed stray dogs rarely assist public bodies in sterilization or vaccination efforts.


While expressing sympathy towards animals, the court stressed the need to consider the chaos that may arise from feeding stray dogs in undesignated locations. It pointed out that this could create apprehension, especially among school-going children, and raised concerns about the possibility of stray dogs approaching them.

The court's remarks highlight the importance of balancing compassion for animals with the safety and well-being of the public. The government has been given a deadline to address the PIL and take appropriate action regarding the guidelines.