“DOGS IN THE DOCK: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS ON THE RIGHTS OF STRAY DOGS”

AUTHOR – M. MUKUNDAN* & K. KEERTHANA**

* STUDENT AT SCHOOL OF LAW, VELS INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND ADVANCED STUDIES (VISTAS)

** ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AT SCHOOL OF LAW, VELS INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND ADVANCED STUDIES (VISTAS)

BEST CITATION – M. MUKUNDAN & K. KEERTHANA, “DOGS IN THE DOCK: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS ON THE RIGHTS OF STRAY DOGS”, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 6 (6) OF 2026, PG. 706-716, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344. DOI – https://doi.org/10.65393/IJLRV6I6473

ABSTRACT:

The legal and judicial treatment of stray dogs in India reflects an evolving attempt to balance animal welfare with public safety and administrative practicality. This part of the study examines both the statutory framework governing stray dogs and the role of the judiciary in shaping and strengthening these legal principles. It analyses the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, along with the Animal Birth Control regime and municipal laws, which together form the backbone of animal welfare regulation in the country. At the same time, it highlights how courts have stepped in to interpret these laws in light of constitutional values, often expanding their scope to recognise the dignity and protection of animal life. Through an exploration of landmark decisions, including Animal Welfare Board of India v. A. Nagaraja, the discussion demonstrates how judicial intervention has contributed to the development of a more humane and rights-oriented approach towards stray dogs. By bringing together statutory provisions and case law, this section seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of how law and judicial reasoning interact in addressing the complexities surrounding stray dog welfare in India.

KEYWORDS: Stray dogs, Animal Rights, Cruelty, Public safety, Rules.