Bengaluru: The Bengaluru Central City Corporation (BCCC) has appealed to the public to come forward and adopt stray dogs as part of its efforts to ensure the welfare and humane management of community dogs within its jurisdiction. In an official release, the civic body urged individuals, organisations, residents’ welfare associations (RWAs), and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to participate actively in adopting street dogs, instead of purchasing pedigree breeds.
The appeal comes amid growing concerns over the rising number of stray dogs and the need to manage them humanely, in compliance with directions issued by the apex court. Officials said adoption is one of the most effective long-term solutions to address both animal welfare and public safety.
Large street dog population identified
According to a veterinarian associated with the Bengaluru Central City Corporation, there are an estimated 30,000 street dogs within the limits of the Central City Corporation alone. Based on directions issued by the Supreme Court regarding the presence of stray animals in sensitive public spaces, around 800 dogs have been identified for relocation.
These dogs are currently found in areas such as schools, colleges, hospitals, hostels, playgrounds, bus stops, depots, parks, and other high-footfall public places. Civic officials said the relocation process is being carried out carefully to ensure the safety of both the animals and the public.
“The identification of dogs for relocation has been done strictly in accordance with court guidelines. The intention is not to harm the animals, but to ensure that vulnerable locations remain safe, while dogs are provided with shelter and care,” the veterinarian said.
Focus on shelters and adoption
As part of its broader animal welfare strategy, the corporation is accelerating work on developing an animal shelter at S Bingipura, which falls under the Bengaluru South City Corporation limits. Officials said both the Central City Corporation and the South City Corporation are in the process of building shelters to house stray dogs in a humane environment.
“There is adequate land identified, and shelters are being developed. While both corporations are working on infrastructure, the Central City Corporation has taken the initiative to appeal directly to the public for adoption,” a senior official said.
The official added that shelters alone cannot be a permanent solution, given the large number of street dogs and the continuous growth in their population. Adoption, combined with sterilisation and vaccination, is seen as a sustainable approach.
Appeal to choose adoption over buying pets
Civic officials have also highlighted a growing trend of people spending significant amounts of money to purchase pedigree dogs, while thousands of street dogs remain without permanent homes. They appealed to animal lovers to consider adopting community dogs instead.
“Many people are keen on buying breed dogs, often spending several thousands or even lakhs of rupees. Instead, they can give a loving home to a street dog that is equally affectionate and loyal,” the official said.
The corporation has assured potential adopters that all dogs offered for adoption will undergo a thorough health check-up. They will be vaccinated and sterilised before being handed over, ensuring that adopters receive healthy and well-cared-for animals.
Ensuring humane management
Officials stressed that the adoption drive is part of a broader framework for humane dog population management. Along with adoption, the corporation continues to implement Animal Birth Control (ABC) programmes and anti-rabies vaccination drives across its limits.
Animal welfare groups have welcomed the move, saying it aligns with best practices followed in many Indian cities. They said adoption not only reduces the number of dogs on the streets but also improves the quality of life for the animals.
“Street dogs are resilient and intelligent. With proper care, they make excellent companions. Initiatives like this can change public perception and encourage responsible pet ownership,” an animal welfare activist said.
Role of citizens and RWAs
The corporation has specifically encouraged RWAs and community groups to play a proactive role. RWAs can help identify friendly and healthy street dogs in their localities, facilitate adoption, and educate residents about coexistence with community animals.
NGOs working in the field of animal welfare have also been invited to collaborate with the civic body in awareness campaigns, adoption drives, and post-adoption support.
Conclusion
With an estimated 30,000 street dogs in its limits, the Bengaluru Central City Corporation’s appeal for adoption marks a significant step towards humane and sustainable animal management. By encouraging citizens to adopt, rather than buy pets, and by ensuring health checks, vaccination, and sterilisation, the civic body hopes to strike a balance between public safety and animal welfare. Officials said the success of the initiative will ultimately depend on public participation and a collective sense of responsibility towards community animals.