India is home to over 65 million free-ranging dogs. The explosion in free-ranging dog populations around the country has stemmed from poor waste management, uncomprehensive pet ownership laws, and the vulture crisis. Unfortunately, this has led to an ecological crisis. Countless endangered species, such as the Great Indian Bustard, Black-Necked Cranes, antelopes and deer regularly fall victim to the world’s most populous terrestrial carnivore. Meanwhile, free-ranging dogs have catalyzed the transmission of deadly viruses, such as canine distemper virus, to carnivores such as wolves, dholes and even lions. Unfortunately, human society has not been spared as the dog menace has exacerbated India’s battle against rabies.
In this episode, I interview Chandrima Home to understand India’s free-ranging dog menace. We discuss the causes and potential solutions to the menace. Additionally, Chandrima elaborates on her extensive research on the ecological impacts of free-ranging dogs in India.
Episode 45: Uncovering India’s Free Ranging Dog Problem with Chandrima Home