Celebrating Our Furry Friends: BBMP Hosts the Festival of Dogs on October 17th

In a heartwarming initiative, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) is set to celebrate the 'Festival of Dogs' on October 17, bringing together Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), animal lovers, and caretakers from across the city. The event aims to shine a positive light on the incredible bond between humans and dogs, emphasizing love, companionship, and the important role dogs play in our society.

Changing the Narrative: From Fear to Friendship

Often, the conversation around dogs in urban spaces centers around fears of dog bites and aggressive behavior. However, BBMP's Special Commissioner of Health, Suralkar Vikas Kishor, is eager to change that perspective. In a press release, he remarked, "Dogs are more often than not seen negatively, with the main focus on dog bites and fear of attacks, while most dogs are loyal, obedient, protective, and beautiful companions for humans. We want to celebrate these positive contributions while advocating preventive measures to manage conflicts."

This initiative highlights the importance of harmonious coexistence with animals in our urban environment. Beyond efforts like animal birth control and vaccinations, there is a need to understand animal behavior and appreciate them as nature intended. By fostering greater awareness, BBMP aims to promote peaceful and mutually beneficial relationships between people and street dogs.

Building Coexistence Champions: #BiteFreeLocality Campaign

To further support this goal, BBMP is partnering with Sahavarthin Animal Welfare Trust and other animal welfare organizations under the #BiteFreeLocality campaign. The initiative will involve rolling out various programs to create "coexistence champions" – volunteers who will actively work to foster a humane environment for animals. The hope is to educate and empower communities to coexist with their canine neighbors while promoting safety and respect for all.

A Community Effort: Pourakarmikas to Feed Community Dogs

In a pilot project launching on October 17, BBMP is collaborating with pourakarmikas (sanitation workers) from four wards to assist in feeding community dogs. This initiative will involve coordinating with local restaurants to ensure that leftover food is put to good use by feeding dogs in need. As the project develops, more restaurants and caretakers will be brought on board to ensure consistent feeding across the city, creating a sustainable model for supporting the city's stray dog population.

How to Get Involved: Volunteer and Make a Difference

If you are passionate about animals and want to be part of this movement, BBMP is calling for volunteers from every ward. Those interested can scan a code provided by the BBMP, fill out a form, and submit it before October 15, 2024. For additional details or questions, you can also contact 1533.

This celebration not only highlights the loyal companionship of dogs but also serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and understanding in creating a more humane city for all its inhabitants.