Street dogs or community dogs, as they are termed, have been an integral part of the Indian society. They have co-existed along with man since generations and are known for their being faithful to familiar people living in the area. They keep a watch on outsiders and visitors, and sniff them to rule out any harm. Several mythological stories and real-life incidents relate dogs to be more dependable and faithful than humans.
However, in the present time when the housing and living pattern has undergone change and there has been a change in human–dog interaction and at all times things are not pleasant. Due to changing ways of our living, few dogs tend to develop a behaviour that brings trouble. In recent years, incidents of dogs attacking residents have been reported from across various cities in India.
Another point to take note is that not all persons have equal liking or tolerance for dogs, or for any other things, which has to be considered with understanding.
Taking note of the scenario in our neighbourhood, the sector we live in, Samvada has been carrying out news of incidents where the street dogs have scared away kids and elders. Little children have fallen from their bicycles while riding near their homes only, and have had injuries. The number of dogs in the sector lanes is increasing each year; their breeding season is soon approaching and litter of pups will be seen in the corners. At this time the mother dog gets more ferocious out of being protective towards her pups.
Sector RWAs have been trying to tackle the situation and to get dogs sterlised. But the problem persists.
The sector residents have a responsible role in this issue. There are some families who feed and take care of the street dogs. While taking care just outside their homes can be good for both, but feeding away from home, in the other lane, should be avoided.
The above issue was discussed recently in our meeting with the residents of Sector 93B, in A block. There are several dogs here, with whom residents are familiar and do not mind them sitting outside their home. But a certain dog, light brown in colour and has made a corner lane as the adda, and is creating a scare in the block. Recently it has bitten house helps, some vendor, and a 70-year-old lady who had come to visit Jain Chaityalay at A-103 (Sector 93B). This dog has been a scare for the residents who take a walk. They carry a stick in their hands as their guard. Children can’t be left alone to play in the park or visit next door friend. We have been told that this particular dog will walk quietly and then suddenly bites.
