Whenever I head back home to Hyderabad from college, the first "welcome home" I get isn't just from my family—it’s from the street dogs in my colony. These are the dogs I’ve seen grow up, the ones who know my scent and wag their tails the moment I turn the corner. I've seen them being too friendly with people who even try to harm them. They are the ones who’ve spent years living peacefully in our lanes, and the thought of them being put in closed shelters hurts a lot.

Currently, the Supreme Court of India has been actively hearing petitions regarding the relocation of stray dogs. These sessions, happening in early 2026, have prompted proposals that might lead to moving street dogs to overcrowded shelters, allowing as little as 20 square feet of space per dog. Such a move is not only impractical but also inhumane, given the conditions these animals may face.

Instead of such drastic measures, we should be urging the government and the Supreme Court to prioritize the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules of 2023. This method offers a sustainable and humane approach to managing street dog populations. The ABC programme focuses on spaying/neutering and vaccination of stray dogs, which has proven effective in controlling the birth rate and ensuring healthier street dog communities.

By implementing the ABC Rules 2023, we can achieve a balance where humans and street dogs coexist harmoniously. Shelters, in many cases, are not adequately equipped to handle the sheer number of dogs, leading to a decline in the quality of life for these animals. On the contrary, the ABC method ensures that dogs can continue living in their known territories without contributing to overpopulation and the issues that arise from it.

We must understand that street dogs are an integral part of our communities, providing companionship and often protection. Relocating them disrupts this natural balance and increases the risk of conflict between animals and humans.

Join us in advocating for a kinder, more practical solution by urging the authorities to adopt the ABC Rules 2023 over mass relocation or caging of stray dogs. Sign this petition to make your voice heard and support a humane management strategy that respects the rights and lives of street dogs in India.