In a significant move towards a humane solution, animal welfare activists in Kochi have formally offered to join forces with government authorities to address the district's persistent stray dog population. This collaborative stance emerged from a crucial meeting held on Monday at the Aluva ICDP campus.
Unified Front for Shelter Construction
The meeting, chaired by the District Animal Husbandry Officer, saw strong consensus among the twenty-six participating activists and organizations. They unanimously backed joint efforts with various government departments to establish shelters and provide care for stray dogs. Representing Rotary International, Seejo Thomas stepped forward with an offer of full support for the construction of these essential facilities.
Echoing this commitment, Ajay Menon from Tripunithura and others present stated their readiness to undertake the actual construction and management of the shelters. Their proposal hinges on a single key requirement from the government: the provision of suitable land. This public-private partnership model aims to accelerate the creation of safe havens for the animals.
Formalizing the Feeding Ecosystem
Beyond shelter, the discussion delved into the practical challenges faced by citizens who regularly feed stray dogs. Participants proposed a structured system to bring order and responsibility to this practice. Their key recommendations include:
- Accurate documentation of all designated feeding spots across the district.
- Issuance of official identification cards to individuals who feed strays, recognizing their role.
- A mandate for all feeders to become 'responsible feeders', ensuring the dogs they care for are properly vaccinated and sterilized.
Government Support for Sterilization
In a promising development for the plan's viability, the District Animal Husbandry Officer announced that sterilization of rescued stray dogs could be performed free of charge. This critical service, however, is contingent upon receiving the necessary approvals from the respective Local Self-Government bodies. This potential removal of a major financial barrier is seen as a cornerstone for any long-term population management strategy.
The meeting in Kochi marks a potential turning point, shifting the narrative from conflict to collaboration. By combining community initiative with official support, stakeholders hope to create a sustainable and compassionate framework for managing the welfare of stray dogs in the district.
