Kerala faces challenges in setting up dog shelters

Challenges in Setting Up Dog Shelters in the State

The State government reports that high population density, public protests, and land scarcity are hindering the establishment of dog shelters.

In an affidavit submitted to the Supreme Court, the State outlined these challenges. The Supreme Court had directed all States to create dog shelters.

Current Status of Dog Shelters

Currently, two dog shelters operate in the State. Sheltering facilities have started in all 20 permanent Animal Birth Control (ABC) centers. District Collectors are tasked with finding land for additional shelters. The affidavit from Kerala’s Standing Counsel C.K. Sasi noted that high population density and a lack of government land are major obstacles.

Efforts to Identify Land and Support

The Revenue and Local Self-Government departments are working to identify suitable land for new shelters. Once land is finalized, the Animal Husbandry department will provide technical support for the facilities.

District Animal Husbandry Officers are compiling a list of animal welfare organizations and enthusiasts to help set up shelters. Currently, 22 dog feeding centers are operational across the State. Efforts are ongoing to find more feeding spots without inconveniencing the public, according to the affidavit.

Fencing for Educational Institutions

Regarding the court’s directive to fence educational institutions, the State informed the court that 20,872 institutions already have fencing or compound walls. However, 3,383 institutions still need these protective facilities. The State explained that civic bodies could not begin construction due to the model code of conduct during civic polls.

Departments such as Sports, General Education, Transport, Higher Education, and Health, along with the State’s Railway establishment, have appointed nodal officers to ensure fencing of all institutions under their control. Local bodies in the State have also designated nodal officers to monitor and remove stray dogs from these institutions.