Can Retired Police Dogs Stay With Their Handlers in Maharashtra?
Finally, after spending many years working for the protection of society and also working with the police force, the retired police dogs from Maharashtra can finally enjoy a well-deserved retirement life. This has been made possible through a welfare policy formulated by the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Mr. Devendra Fadnavis.
What Is Changing for Retired Police Dogs?
Police dogs will be retired from operational activities when they complete 10 years of service under this new policy. They, however, will not be adopted out to any third parties after retirement.
However, the dogs would be allowed to stay with the handlers who have been taking care of them during the period of their service. The goal is to keep the bond that the handler and dog have formed intact.
Why Staying With Their Handlers Matters
Many police dogs go through most of their life doing similar things and working with the same handlers. Being thrust into an unfamiliar setting right after retiring could stress out some dogs.
According to the report, experience shows that separation from their handlers and routine has resulted in mental stress for some retired service dogs, and they even refused to eat.
The presence of the dogs with their handlers will give them a familiar environment and emotional security in their later days.
What Will the Maharashtra Government Provide?
The Maharashtra Home Department will fund the dogs’ post-retirement needs. The support will include:
- Nutrition and diet
- Medical costs and healthcare
- Daily living requirements
- Familiar surroundings and ongoing treatment
- Possibility of staying with their trusted handlers
More Compassionate Retirement for Retired Police Dogs
According to Fadnavis, there is no need to torture a dog that has worked for the force for ten years. It is a result of the awareness of the needs of the working animals for their welfare.
By allowing the police dogs to retire with their handlers, along with the provision of care through state funding, the state of Maharashtra is definitely making things easier for them during their retirement. In this way, retirement will be easy and comfortable for them.
References Link: https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/maharashtra-to-let-retired-police-dogs-stay-with-handlers-at-state-expense-11944029
