The tranquil beachfront of Juhu, once a haven for stray dogs, has been shrouded in a disturbing mystery. Residents and animal lovers have raised concerns over the disappearance of at least five street dogs from the area since August 23. While two of these dogs have been found, their circumstances remain unclear, sparking fears of foul play.
The missing dogs were primarily located around Juhu beach and its adjacent lanes. One dog was discovered near the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research in Colaba, rescued by a group of animal caretakers. Another dog was “dropped back” near Juhu Post Office in a “fancy car” after being spotted in Powai. Local residents and animal activists believe that affluent dog owners from the upscale locality might be behind the disappearances. These owners may be paying individuals to relocate the street dogs, as the strays can become territorial and bark at their pedigree pets. However, the Juhu police station has initiated an investigation and is yet to confirm these suspicions.
The community dogs in Juhu are well cared for by local animal welfare groups. These groups provide medical care, vaccinations, neutering, and spaying to the dogs, and have placed collars with QR codes, names, and emergency contact numbers on each dog. The dogs are also known to be friendly and pose no threat to humans or other animals. Animal activists and dog feeders in the area have expressed their concerns over the relocation of the street dogs. They emphasize that the dog population in Juhu is well under control and that relocating them is both illegal and ineffective. The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 (PCA Act) prohibits the relocation of strays from their areas.
While isolated incidents of aggression between street dogs and pets may occur, they can often be resolved through proper training and behavior modification. Canine behaviourists can provide guidance to dog owners on how to interact with community dogs peacefully. Relocation is not only illegal but also counterproductive, as it can create a void that may be filled by other stray dogs. The disappearance of Juhu’s street dogs raises important questions about animal welfare and the coexistence of humans and animals in urban environments.
Street dogs play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and can contribute to pest control and waste management. Their presence can also enhance the overall biodiversity of a city. It is imperative to address the issue of stray dogs with compassion and humane solutions. By promoting responsible pet ownership, providing adequate care for street dogs, and implementing effective animal welfare policies, we can create a harmonious coexistence between humans and animals in Mumbai.
