The ban on feral dog breeds has disheartened pet traders in Malabar

The ban imposed by the Central government on the import, sale and breeding of 23 specific dog breeds, including the popular Rottweiler, Cane Corso, Akita, Bulldog and Pitbull, has left high and dry more than 100 passionate entrepreneurs in the sector from northern Kerala districts.

Since no adoptions are now allowed under the new rules, breeders are forced to keep all unsold puppies with them. Medical and food costs will be an additional burden for small breeders in the coming days with falling adoption requests.

“Apart from breeding, entrepreneurs like me earn a living by training a large number of foreign breeds in Kozhikode and neighboring districts. We also attend dog shows with these breeds as they have been an attraction here for decades. This blanket ban will definitely affect the facility providers and boarding organisers,” said P. Vysakh, a young dog breeder and trainer in Kozhikode city. A frustrated Vysakh, who entered the field as a self-employment option a few years ago, whose care of puppies now in the care of breeders will gradually emerge as a liability for many.

Although some top breeders in the State have initiated steps to legally challenge the Union government’s order, most are still clueless about the future of their pet ventures. Many are rushing to clear stock at cheaper prices. The fate of puppies that are now available in large numbers with well-known dealers remains unpredictable as there is a high probability of their abandonment thanks to the incredible situation.

“Female dogs are bound to have serious health complications if the breeding process is not supported in time. Otherwise, one has to opt for spaying, which is an expensive matter because it involves -removal of ovaries and uterus. The fate of the dogs in the banned group will certainly be a concern for true dog lovers,” said EK Rajeev, a dog rescuer and a caretaker under the Animal Welfare Board of the Union government.He added that there should have been better strategies to control the population of feral alien breeds.

B. Gopesh, a native of Kozhikode who owns a three-year-old Rottweiler, said the ban is hardly justified as many dog ​​breeds have become popular in Kerala and have adapted to the climate and social situations, besides fulfilling handlers’ entertainment and security needs. “Instead of banning such breeds, there should be strengthened rules including the mandatory use of micro chips to make handlers or breeders more accountable,” he added.