Dog theft is increasing, and canine companions suspect their beloved furballs are ending up on the table in Gurgaon
Hundreds of pets are stolen every year and sadly, only 10 percent are ever reunited with their human companions. Stolen dogs meet many ends. Some are sold to research labs, others are used by unscrupulous breeders in puppy mills, while still others are forced into dog fighting, among other very disturbing horrific purposes. Nothing, however, prepares a canine companion for the news that his beloved pet had ended up on someone’s table. Shocking and disgusting, but it’s true that a day after Gurgaon police filed a case of kidnapping and killing a dog named Brownie recently, a video circulated in the media showed at least 12 people inside a room, eating meat and consuming liquor. One of the suspects is heard saying they “ate doggy.” Barbaric, if it’s true. Killing a dog – who is valued as a family member – for dinner maybe allowed in Vietnam and China but it’s a subject that will always spur outrage in this part of the world. Even if you are not a dog lover, it’s hard to find someone who doesn’t take particular umbrage to man’s best friend being reduced to steak. It’s easy to conclude that any society that turns dogs into stew must be immune to the animal’s charms, or really desperate for some cheap nourishment.
Without getting into the debate of whether killing dog for food is cruel than killing of chicken, lamb or pigs, stealing someone’s pet and that, too, a dog or a cat that enjoy the status as members of the family is criminal and deserves harsh punishment. But the problem is although we have some of the finest provisions to safeguard animals in the world, killing a stray brings fine of Rs 50, while hacking a pet can land you in jail for five years. But we are yet to come across any punishment to the latter effect. Until the laws are amended for harsher terms, it’s better pet-owners remain on high alert for dog-nappers. Think twice before leaving your dog tied up outside a shop. You will make them a vulnerable and tempting target for opportunist thieves.
Also, don’t leave your dog alone in the car, even for a few minutes. Thieves can easily break into your car to steal your precious pet. Make sure your dog is microchipped and that you keep your contact details up-to-date, especially if you move house or change your telephone number.
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