KARACHI:
Across the country, dog culling remains a controversial and widely debated topic. While concerns about stray dogs in urban areas are valid, it’s essential to address the root causes and challenge the misconceptions surrounding these innocent creatures. Contrary to popular belief, many stray dogs are harmless and can become invaluable companions if treated with kindness and compassion. Stray dogs often face adversity in urban environments leading to survival instincts that might be misconstrued as aggressive behaviour.
Unfortunately, many communities react to the presence of stray dogs with hostility often resorting to culling as a solution. This approach not only raises ethical concerns but fails to address the underlying issues contributing to the stray dog population. Communities can take a more humane approach by promoting responsible pet ownership, spaying and neutering programmes and establishing animal shelters. Education plays a pivotal role in changing perceptions, helping people understand that stray dogs, when treated kindly, can become loyal and effective guardians of a locality.
Stray dogs, like their domesticated counterparts, have an innate ability to form strong bonds with humans. When shown love and compassion, these animals can transform into loyal protectors of their adopted communities. By working together to address the root causes of the stray dog population and providing support through adoption programmes, societies can create a harmonious environment where both humans and animals thrive.
M Abid Hafeez
Lahore
Published in The Express Tribune, January 26th, 2024.
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The misunderstood strays
Across the country, dog culling remains a controversial and widely debated topic. While concerns about stray dogs in urban areas are valid, it’s essential to address the root causes and challenge the misconceptions surrounding these innocent creatures. Contrary to popular belief, many stray dogs are harmless and can become invaluable companions if treated with kindness and compassion. Stray dogs often face adversity in urban environments leading to survival instincts that might be misconstrued as aggressive behaviour.
Unfortunately, many communities react to the presence of stray dogs with hostility often resorting to culling as a solution. This approach not only raises ethical concerns but fails to address the underlying issues contributing to the stray dog population. Communities can take a more humane approach by promoting responsible pet ownership, spaying and neutering programmes and establishing animal shelters. Education plays a pivotal role in changing perceptions, helping people understand that stray dogs, when treated kindly, can become loyal and effective guardians of a locality.
Stray dogs, like their domesticated counterparts, have an innate ability to form strong bonds with humans. When shown love and compassion, these animals can transform into loyal protectors of their adopted communities. By working together to address the root causes of the stray dog population and providing support through adoption programmes, societies can create a harmonious environment where both humans and animals thrive.
M Abid Hafeez
Lahore
