Summary of this article
Adopting a stray comes with responsibilities and financial commitments.
Cost includes adoption, vaccination, medical and daily expenses
Beyond money, adopting a dog requires long-term commitment
One of the highlights of the Supreme Court directive was to urge people to adopt stray dogs. Adopting a dog is not just about money; it is a long-term commitment
As soon as the Supreme Court's order came on August 11, directing the concerned authorities to move stray dogs in the Delhi-NCR region to shelter homes, support and protests erupted simultaneously. While vocal dog lovers flooded social media and protest sites in Delhi angrily, those in favour countered them with their arguments.
One of the highlights of the Supreme Court directive was to urge people to adopt stray dogs. "In light of the concerns of the interveners, we urge all to adopt and give dogs a shelter in their homes. However, we do not ascribe to the virtue signalling of all those who share love and concern for the animals," the apex court noted. However, adopting a dog, stray or otherwise, comes with a cost. While love for animals is mostly a prevalent feeling, the expenses to support a pet may not be. And adopting a stray comes with an added responsibility as the animal moves from a free space to a confined one. Making those adjustments in your living space adds to that cost.
The cost of adopting a stray dog in Delhi NCR generally ranges from free to a few thousands. It depends on various factors including the availability of space, cost of food, vaccination and/or sterilisation.
We break down some of the main areas under which you will spend money.
The cost of pet care
The cost of adopting a stray dog in Delhi NCR generally ranges from free to a few thousands. It depends on various factors including the availability of space, cost of food, vaccination and/or sterilisation.
We break down some of the main areas under which you will spend money.
Adoption Cost: If you are just picking one canine from the street, there is really no adoption cost, but some may choose to adopt one from an NGO or animal care organisation, which may ask for a fee to cover the cost of vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and other initial care. The fee is typically between Rs 500 and Rs 2,000 in most cases, but some organisations can even charge up to Rs 8,000 or more, claiming that they provide comprehensive care and veterinary services, including accessories, which can add to the overall cost.
Donation cost:
Many NGOs and animal organisations do not charge any formal adoption fee but may ask for a donation which will support their work with dogs such as providing food and medical care for homeless animals.
Post-adoption costs
Once you have adopted a dog, be prepared for the following ongoing costs of ownership:
Food: Your dog should have regular and healthy meals with a balance of protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Dogs can get essential nutrients like protein from chicken (Rs. 130 to Rs.300 per kg) or fish (Starting from Rs. 400 per kg), healthy fats like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and complex carbohydrates like rice (Starting from Rs. 40 per kg) or oats (Rs. 100 to Rs. 400 per Kg). Fruits and vegetables, like carrots, spinach, or apples, also play a role (rates vary from Rs. 40 to Rs. 300 per kg). The diet may also include milk in small quantities (Rs. 30 for 500 ml) and eggs (Rs. 8 to Rs. 15 per piece). You can also go for branded dog food that costs upward of Rs. 2000 per 10 Kg.
Vaccination: The cost of vaccination of dogs varies depending on the ailment. Apart from Rabies, which is legal and should be done annually, dogs need to be vaccinated for other diseases as well, including Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus, Leptospirosis, Bordetella and Lyme, etc.
Other Medical costs: Apart from vaccination, regular check-ups, and potential treatment for illnesses is also required to keep the pet healthy. The vet consultation fee starts from Rs 500 per visit. Some centers offer quarterly, half-yearly and annual packages as well, ranging between Rs. 1500 to over Rs. 15,000, depending on the plan you opt for.
Grooming: Depending on the breed, grooming costs of dogs can vary from Rs 700 to Rs 2000 and more.
Training: Training sessions can be beneficial when you adopt a stray dog, as it will help the canine in adjusting to your home environment. The average fee starts from over Rs 500 per hour.
Pet Accessories: The cost of leashes, collars, beds, toys, etc., depends on the brands. Leashes cost over Rs. 250 per piece, collars cost over Rs. 150 per piece, beds for dogs start from Rs. 200 onwards on e-commerce websites, and dog toys start from Rs. 50 onwards.
Dog Care: Beyond Cost
Adopting a dog is not just about money but a long-term commitment. Your responsibility is two-pronged: first towards the animal you have adopted and second to society. The dog will need your care, which involves giving time, attention, and resources and ensuring that your home becomes a safe and suitable place for the pet. You also need to ensure that those living around you feel safe and secure around your canine.
