Telangana HC gives pet parent 3 weeks to relocate 37 dogs from flat

In a ruling that has caught the attention of animal lovers and urban residents alike, the Telangana High Court has given a Hyderabad-based 'pet parent' three weeks to find a new home for 37 dogs currently living in a single flat. The directive came during a hearing on Wednesday, with the court expressing concern over the feasibility of keeping such a large number of animals in a residential apartment.

Court's concern over space and neighbours

The bench, while hearing the matter, observed that a flat is not an appropriate place to house 37 dogs. The court noted that the situation could lead to hygiene issues and disturbance for neighbours, who have reportedly raised complaints. The pet parent, whose identity has not been disclosed in the order, was asked to make alternative arrangements within three weeks.

The court's remarks underscored the practical challenges of pet ownership in densely populated urban areas. While the petitioner argued that the dogs were well-cared for, the bench maintained that the welfare of both the animals and the residents had to be balanced.

Pet parent's predicament

The pet parent, who had been keeping the dogs in a flat, now faces the daunting task of finding a suitable location that can accommodate all 37 animals. Animal welfare activists have pointed out that relocating such a large number of dogs at short notice is no small feat, especially in a city where shelter space is limited.

Officials familiar with the case said the pet parent may need to explore options like rented farmhouses or kennels on the city's outskirts. However, costs and logistics remain significant hurdles.

Legal framework and animal welfare

The case also highlights the legal grey areas around keeping multiple pets in residential premises. While Indian laws, including the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, mandate proper care for animals, they do not explicitly cap the number of pets a person can keep. That said, local municipal rules and housing society bylaws often impose restrictions.

The High Court's intervention suggests that courts are willing to step in when such arrangements lead to disputes. The bench did not pass any order on the cruelty angle, but the focus remains on finding a practical solution for the dogs.

What happens next

The pet parent has been given until the end of the three-week period to relocate the dogs and report compliance to the court. If the deadline is not met, the court may consider further action, including potential penalties or seizure of the animals.

Animal rights groups are watching the case closely, as it could set a precedent for how similar disputes are handled in the future. For now, the immediate priority is to ensure the dogs find a safe and comfortable new home.