Indians adopting pets has seen a tremendous shift on an acceptance level in the past decade. With almost 6 lakh pets being adopted every year, a change in perception is seen, with pets being considered as family members. People no longer refer to themselves as pet owners, but proud ‘pet parents’!
The Constitution advocates co-existence between all creatures under Article 51(g), which gives every citizen the right to choose how to live, which includes the choice to live with or without a companion animal. Even our puranas say that a portion of food from each meal should be kept aside and served to the animals and birds around us – a little bit of ancient wisdom we conveniently forgot.
It is the fundamental duty of every citizen to be compassionate to all living creatures. Instead, we subject most pet owners to harassment, issue notices from apartment authorities demanding they move or abandon their pets. Many tenants, ignorant about laws and bylaws, give in. Some, though knowledgeable of laws, finally submit to the emotional harassment – like a friend who recently left the apartment they own in Thiruvananthapuram. A committee member told them they were afraid that many more people would bring in pets, if they allow this case!
The anti-animal trend in Kerala is very disturbing. Studies clearly show the tremendous health benefits of owing a pet – lower allergies, lower blood pressure and lower cholesterol – an effect no other relationship, not even the closest interpersonal ones, can have. Not to mention the character enrichment in children who own pets. Still, Malayali parents refuse kids to have a pet citing the inconveniences involved.
Some of the important rules set by the Animal Welfare Board of India in their recent circular are:
- Even if other tenants are in consensus about not allowing pets, a ban on owning pets is illegal and can’t be enforced on tenants.
- No notice can be passed on the size of dogs which accepted in the apartment.
- No laws can be passed against pets using elevators. However, if an alternative lift exists, pet owners are advised to use it.
- Pet owners should be responsible for cleaning their pets feces, according to methods suggested by associations.
- Owners must keep their pets healthy and hygienic and administer all vaccinations. Sterilisation is also advised.
At a time when some people’s animosity towards animals has taken dangerous and often horrifying turns, these rules come as a ray of hope.
The writer is an animal activist and member of PFA Thiruvananthapuram
