Stray dogs: LSGD issues order to apply Disaster Management Act to take over shelter homes

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Local Self Government Department has issued an order to apply the Disaster Management Act if there is any objection to the taking over of shelter homes to house stray dogs. The action comes against a backdrop of heightened opposition in some quarters.

It has also been decided to make vacant buildings or parts of buildings under local bodies and other departments as shelter centres for the time being. These can be used until local bodies find permanent buildings. For this, the local bodies can utilize the amount from their own funds. Permission was given to start such centres in urban areas and block panchayats.

The government directed the local bodies to find volunteers from Janmaithri police and Kudumbashree activists who are willing to catch stray dogs for vaccination and become animal caretakers. Animal welfare organization workers and volunteers will also be appointed. It was also suggested that the health department should give them preventive vaccine.