Following a recent Supreme Court observation on the responsibilities of street dog feeders, a wave of supportive reactions has emerged from the animal welfare community — many of whom see the remark as long-awaited recognition of their efforts.
“You cannot demand that those who feed street dogs must adopt them. Claiming that stray dogs should be adopted or kept in captivity is unacceptable,” said Justice Sanjiv Khanna.
This piece highlights the responses of feeders, caregivers, and trainers who welcomed the remark as a step in the right direction.
“Let kindness live on our streets without chains”
Anjalika Mukesh, Founder Of Strays Of India, responded:
“We don’t force someone who feeds the homeless to house them — so why should it be any different for strays? Feeding is compassion, not a crime. Let kindness live on our streets without chains,” she said.
“The Supreme Court’s view safeguards compassion, ensuring that kindness on the streets is not silenced. Adoption must be a heartfelt choice, not an imposed burden.”
She added that many feeders step in only because formal systems don’t.
“We feed because no one else is doing it”
Dr. Madhulika PS, pet nutritionist and founder of Progressive Canines, said the Court’s position echoes what many on the ground have experienced.
“If there are homeless people on the road, do we ask those feeding them to adopt them or put them behind bars? No. So why should we treat dogs differently?”
“Surgeries are expensive. Sterilization is ignored. The government is supposed to manage this — but when they don’t, people like us step in. That doesn’t mean we should be forced to take these dogs home.”
“Feeding is empathy in action, not a contract”
Mallika Kamodia, dog trainer and behaviour specialist, also responded:
“It’s absolutely ridiculous — like saying if you help a homeless person, you should adopt them. Feeding a dog isn’t a binding contract. It’s empathy in action.”
She added:
“Neutering, feeding them well, organizing vaccination drives, and teaching people how to treat animals — that’s the way forward. Even if someone doesn’t like animals, it’s okay. Just don’t go out of your way to hurt them.”
This set of reactions reflects the views of those directly involved in animal caregiving, many of whom say they finally feel seen by the system.
