Stray Dogs: Understanding, Compassion, and Friendship
For much of my life, I was neither a dog lover nor someone with a strong aversion to stray dogs. Our relationship was built on a cautious distance—a mutual “you do you” understanding. So much so that sometimes when the number of strays in the vicinity increased I have even raised a request with GHMC to take corrective measures. However, everything changed a few months ago when we adopted a rescued puppy. That experience opened my eyes to the world of stray dogs and led to a fundamental shift in my perspective. Taking a small puppy out for a walk, because they absolutely do need to run around and walk to be healthy, means that you need to also interact with curious strays and hence the shift in perspective.
Stray Dogs Are Not a Threat
Stray dogs are often misunderstood as aggressive or dangerous, but the reality is quite different. Unless rabid, stray dogs are generally not looking to attack people. Most of the time, they’re just hungry—hungry for food, yes, but also for affection and kindness. If you don’t have food to offer, your attention can mean just as much to them.
Adopting our pup Bagheera made me realize how simple gestures can change your interaction with these animals. Before, I couldn’t bring myself to touch a dog. Today, stray dogs approach me, and I don’t hesitate to pet them, rub their heads, or even let them lick my hand. These animals respond to positive energy; sometimes, all they need is your voice encouraging them. There’s a specific black stray named Bucky near our bus bay who used to avoid everyone. Now, when I call out and whistle to him, he runs over, dancing and wagging his tail. Stray dogs are just looking for a bit of happiness and reassurance.
Why Befriend Stray Dogs?
You might wonder, “Why make friends with stray dogs when I have plenty of human friends?” Here are a few reasons:
- Protection: Stray dogs are fiercely loyal. If they sense that you’re their friend, they will watch over you. They often escort me to and from wherever I go.
- Reciprocity: These dogs offer love and affection without expecting much in return. They help you unwind from life’s daily frustrations. Whether it’s traffic jams, public nuisances, or work stress, coming home to the cheerful reception of stray dogs can lift your spirits.
- Unconditional Joy: These dogs don’t care if you show up without food—they’re just happy to see you. Their joy is infectious, and it offers a stress-relieving experience like no other. They don’t expect you to do much; to them, “you are enough.”
Misunderstanding Aggression
Many people fear strays due to perceived aggression, but most aggressive behavior stems from hunger. Stray dogs, when well-fed, are rarely aggressive. In fact, most cities have animal welfare groups that collect funds to ensure strays are vaccinated and taken care of, further minimizing risks.
While concerns about rabies persist, it’s worth noting that regularly vaccinated strays present a very low health risk. Even if a stray were to scratch or nip, the chance of serious health issues is negligible, thanks to vaccinations. So, feeding them not only builds trust but also reduces the likelihood of any aggressive encounters.
It’s a Two-Way Street
Feeding strays and offering them friendship doesn’t just benefit the dogs; it’s good for you too. Many studies highlight the emotional and psychological benefits of interacting with animals. Playing with or simply petting a dog has been proven to lower stress, reduce anxiety, and even improve cardiovascular health. By opening yourself up to these animals, you introduce more positivity and joy into your own life.
Supporting Reading Material:
- The Science of Dog-Human Interaction: Numerous studies confirm the health benefits of engaging with dogs. One study published in Frontiers in Psychology shows that interacting with dogs can reduce cortisol levels (stress hormone) and increase oxytocin (the “love hormone”) levels in humans.
- Feeding Stray Dogs: Legal and Ethical Considerations: In many parts of the world, feeding stray animals is not only legal but also encouraged by animal welfare organizations. The Humane Society provides guidelines on how to safely and responsibly feed strays, ensuring they stay healthy and friendly.
- Vaccination Programs for Stray Dogs: Many local governments and NGOs run regular vaccination drives for stray dogs to ensure they remain rabies-free. A good resource on this can be found on the World Health Organization’s website, which outlines the importance of community-driven vaccination programs in controlling rabies.
- Emotional Benefits of Petting Dogs: Petting dogs releases endorphins, chemicals that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators in the brain. The American Psychological Association has published research on how dogs, even strays, can serve as emotional companions.
In summary, stray dogs are not the threat we often perceive them to be. With a little compassion, you can forge a bond that brings mutual joy and companionship. Feeding and befriending them isn’t just about helping them—it helps you too. After all, what goes around comes around.