Even by its own high standards of shamelessness, the city seems to have plunged to new depths when it comes to animal cruelty
Even by its own high standards of shamelessness, the city seems to have plunged to new depths when it comes to animal cruelty. Yesterday, we were constrained to dim festive cheer, with a report on two dogs that became the target of unbelievable cruelty. In one instance, a nine-month-old stray dog was attacked with acid or boiling water in Goregaon. In another horrendous incident, a dog’s snout was blasted open with a firecracker.
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These two are so disturbing simply because of the depravity they show. We see dogs and cats, and many other animals subjected to all kinds of harassment. This, though, is absolutely shocking and should shake the most cynical person.
The immediate reaction would be to heal these dogs and hope they get good medical care. The next step is to find the culprits, though this would be near impossible. The bigger picture, however, requires some soul searching. What kind of society do we have that people think it is fun to blow off a dog’s mouth or burn a creature with acid? It shows the fragility of our value system. Let us put an absolute premium on all life. This needs to be ingrained from an early age, at home and in classrooms. In an age when worth is measured by the size of the wallet and cruelty is passed off as ‘sport’, it is time to reinforce that kindness and humanity is at the top of the pyramid.
We often see youngsters tying stones or tin boxes to dogs tails, thinking it is hilarious when they hare around in a frightened manner. This is abhorrent and sickening. No punishment can be too harsh for these perpetrators.
These are challenging times for canines, with their fear of firecrackers. One must sympathise with strays hiding under cars or behind buildings. Let us be more considerate this Diwali.