COMMUNITY DOG / ABANDONED DOG INTEGRATION GUIDE
It is illegal to relocate stray / community animals under Section 11(1) (i) and Section 11(1) (j), PCA Act, 1960. In some cases, a community dogs may stray from another area owing to dog fights, human threats, fireworks / crackers, during mating season or while following a caretaker. Other instances may be abandonment of a domestic pet into a new area. In some cases, a bunch of puppies or adult dogs may also be illegally relocated to a different area.
This section talks about some tips to deal with these scenarios.
Community dog straying: Initial reaction of the territory group will be curiosity followed by mild aggression amongst them. Let them sort it out. If the fight goes out of control and a particular dog / s is getting hurt then intervene by throwing some water. Do not walk into the fight or try to break it in another fashion by pelting stones, using sticks or trying to pull them apart.
Relocation: the dog will stay or stray away to another area. In the event the dog stays, Integration is key. Integration means facilitating familiarity among dogs. Feed them together. Make the alpha male or female feel reassured and comfortable by feeding them first. This is a way to let them know their territory isn't under threat. If there are fights, call out names and break the fights or use water to diffuse the situation. Eventually the new dog will acclimatize in a group that's in line with his / her personality. Remember to sterilize & vaccinate the dog if not done already. The process of settling down will take a month tops. You will witness intermittent unrest until then. The frequency will taper down eventually. They will learn to coexist and mind their own business in their respective spots. If you notice the new dog being bullied or cornered too often, corrective behavioral approach is recommended such as assertive NO’s and DON’T’s. Hand signaling. Gentle reminders every now and then. Trust me, the more you speak with animals, the more they understand and align.
If one of your community animals have been illegally relocated: If you know who did it, first step is to talk to that person, find out the reason and get the location. This is going to be a huge effort and results are not guaranteed. It will warrant a constant and consistent hunt to locate the dog if you have been given the location. Once you have located the dog (let’s hope you always do!), find out about the surroundings. See if there is a local caretaker who has taken a liking to the dog and is willing to passive or active adopt. Work with the new caretaker to integrate the dog and ensure he/ she is well settled. If not sterilized, organize that as soon as possible. If the option above is not a possibility, try to talk to the one who relocated the dog and explain the legal consequences and that the dog has been found and will return to the vicinity. At this stage, you are going to need legal intervention in the interest of the dog, yourself, the person who relocated the dog and the other animals under your care.
Abandoned dogs - secure the dog. Take for a vet inspection. (For a physical and medical examination) Look for a home. Board / foster if affordable, else sterilize, vaccinate and integrate. If you’re ready to adopt or find a potential home, that’s a great option. NGO's and shelter homes can be contacted for guidance as well. (Additional details available in FAQ section)