Standard Protocol for Adoption of Community Dogs in India – Complete Guide

 

Standard Protocol for Adoption of Community Animals in India

Adopting a community animal, such as a street dog or puppy, is a life-changing decision that brings joy, companionship, and a sense of purpose. In India, the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) has laid down a standard protocol to ensure the adoption process safeguards the welfare of animals and ensures responsible pet ownership. This guide explains where and how to adopt, eligibility requirements, necessary documents, and post-adoption responsibilities.

Where to Adopt a Dog or Puppy

Community dogs or pups can be adopted from:

• Shelters of SPCA (Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)
• Animal Welfare Organisations (AWO) recognized by the AWBI or State Animal Welfare Board
• Municipal authorities, including Municipal Corporations, Councils, or Panchayats, if adopting directly from the street (with proper medical check-up and vaccination)

An adoption certificate must be issued by the respective authority to legalize the adoption.

Who Can Adopt?

To be eligible:

• Must be 18 years or older
• Should be of sound mind
• Must be capable of providing proper nutrition, veterinary care, and housing

Required Documents

Prospective adopters must submit:

• House Check Form (Annexure I)
• Valid Government-issued photo ID and address proof
• Completed Adoption Form (Annexure II) with a passport-size photograph
• Self-attested copies of ID proofs and signatures on each page of the adoption form

The Adoption Procedure

1. House Check – Conducted physically or via video call to assess the suitability of the environment.
2. Medical Examination—The dog/pup must be taken for a veterinary check-up, vaccinations, deworming, and parasite control.
3. Spaying/Neutering—If mature, the animal must be sterilized before adoption.
4. Issuance of Adoption Certificate—The AWO/SPCA issues a certificate mentioning species, age, and care guidelines.
5. Record Maintenance—The shelter/organization keeps records of all adoptions for at least two years.

Preparing a Pet-Friendly Home

Adopting a community dog means preparing your home to ensure their safety and comfort:

• Net balconies/windows to prevent escapes or falls
• Remove or cover sharp/dangerous objects
• Keep harmful plants, chemicals, incense, and toxic food away
• Cover exposed electrical fittings
• Provide comfortable bedding and access to clean drinking water
• Feed regular, species-appropriate meals
• Walk dogs at least twice a day

Post-Adoption Responsibilities

After bringing your pet home:

• Schedule regular veterinary visits for health check-ups and vaccinations
• Maintain a consistent feeding and walking routine
• Ensure training and socialization for well-behaved companionship
• Provide mental stimulation and affection to strengthen the bond
• Never abandon the pet—return to the shelter if rehoming becomes unavoidable

Why Follow the Protocol?

The Supreme Court of India, in AWBI vs. Nagaraja & Ors., emphasized the Five Freedoms of Animals:

1. Freedom from hunger, thirst, and malnutrition
2. Freedom from fear and distress
3. Freedom from physical and thermal discomfort
4. Freedom from pain, injury, and disease
5. Freedom to express normal behavior

Following the protocol ensures these freedoms are upheld, protecting animals from unnecessary suffering.

Things to Keep in Mind Before Adoption

• Long-Term Commitment – Dogs live 10–15 years; adoption is for life, not just puppy days.
• Financial Responsibility – Includes food, vaccinations, vet bills, and grooming costs.
• Lifestyle Compatibility—Choose a dog whose size, temperament, and energy level match your living space and daily routine.
• Adjustment Period—Pets may take days to months to adapt to a new home—patience is essential.

Steps to Adopt a Dog in India

1. Identify nearby shelters or rescues (e.g., CUPA in Bangalore, Blue Cross in Hyderabad, and People For Animals in multiple cities).
2. Visit the shelter and bond with potential pets.
3. Review medical records and ensure vaccinations are complete.
4. Complete the adoption paperwork and submit required documents.
5. Prepare your home and bring your new companion home.
6. Provide training, care, and affection to help them settle in.

Why Indie Dogs Make Great Pets

Contrary to popular belief, Indian street dogs (Indies) are loyal, intelligent, playful, and adaptable to the local climate. Adopting an indie not only saves a life but also discourages unethical breeding practices.

Adopting a community dog is not just an act of kindness—it is a commitment to providing a safe, loving, and healthy life to an animal in need. By following the standard adoption protocol, you ensure a smooth, responsible transition for both you and your new furry family member.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Adopting a Community Dog in India

1. Is it legal to adopt a street dog in India?
Yes. As per the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) guidelines, it is completely legal to adopt community animals, provided the adoption follows the official protocol, including vaccination, sterilization, and documentation.

2. Do I need an adoption certificate for a street dog?
Yes. An adoption certificate issued by a recognized Animal Welfare Organization (AWO), SPCA, or municipal authority is necessary. It serves as legal proof of ownership.

3. Can I adopt a puppy directly from the street?
Yes, but you must first take the puppy for a veterinary health check-up, complete vaccinations, and get it sterilized when it’s old enough. Also, ensure you get an adoption certificate from an authorized body.

4. Are there any fees for adopting a dog in India?
Most NGOs and shelters do not charge an adoption fee, but you may need to cover vaccination, deworming, and sterilization costs. Some organizations request a small donation to support other rescues.

5. Can a tenant adopt a dog in India?
Yes. Tenants can adopt as long as they can provide a safe and comfortable environment for the pet. Housing societies cannot legally ban pets as per Indian law, but they can set reasonable rules for their upkeep.

6. What documents are required for adopting a community dog?

• Valid government-issued photo ID
• Address proof
• Completed adoption form with passport-size photo
• Signed house check form (Annexure I)

7. What is the minimum age for adopting a dog in India?
The adopter must be at least 18 years old and financially capable of caring for the animal.

8. Are Indian street dogs good pets?
Absolutely. Indian Indies are intelligent, loyal, and highly adaptable to the local climate. With proper training and love, they make excellent companions.

9. Who do I contact to adopt a community dog?
You can approach:

• Local SPCA
• AWBI-recognized NGOs (e.g., CUPA, Blue Cross, PFA)
• Municipal animal shelters
• Registered foster networks