Planning to Adopt an Indie pup? Here are the Guidelines for Adoption

Dogs are known as man's best friend for a reason. They are loyal, friendly, and playful, making them great companions who bring joy to a home. However, not all dog breeds are suitable for every environment. 

In India, many popular breeds like Huskies and Shih Tzus struggle with the climate and are often bred in poor conditions, leading to a hampered quality of life. Adopting such dogs who are not adapted to our climate is akin animal abuse and makes them suffer in an unsuitable climate. 

In any case, why look outside when we have our very own indie dogs in India?  Adopting an Indie dog, also known as the Indian Pariah, is just as rewarding as any other breed with a host of benefits too. 

Why Choose an Indie Dog?

If you've decided to adopt an Indie pup, congratulations! Indie dogs are the perfect breed for India's conditions. They are loyal, smart, inquisitive, robust, and alert, making them ideal pets.

 Here are a few reasons why Indie dogs make great pets in India:

• Adaptability: Indie dogs have evolved to thrive in India's harsh climate. They are healthier and more comfortable in this environment compared to foreign breeds.
• Health: Indie dogs are naturally healthy because they haven't been crossbred. They have strong immune systems, rarely suffer from birth defects, and require only basic care like regular checkups, good food, and exercise.
• Low Maintenance: Indie dogs need minimal grooming. Bathing and brushing them a couple of times a month is usually enough to keep them neat and clean. 
• Intelligence: Originating from the streets has made Indie dogs smart and alert. They are survivors, which makes them highly adaptable and intelligent in a variety of environments.

Steps to Adopt an Indie Dog

Adopting an Indie dog is a wonderful decision. Here are a few things to keep in mind before you do so: 

1. Visit Nearby Shelters - Stray dogs are common in Indian neighbourhoods and markets. While it might be tempting to take a puppy off the street, it's better to visit animal shelters or NGO-based shelters. Stray dogs often belong to the community and taking them away might disrupt their care and cause concern to the people who take care of them. If you do find a street puppy, make sure it hasn't been cared for by the community, and get it to a vet for immunizations and a health check.
2. Spend Time with Them - Building a bond with your potential pet is crucial. Spend time at the shelter to get to know the dogs. Use treats to help them become familiar with you. Over a few days, the dog should start approaching you on its own, showing that it trusts you and wants to interact with you.
3. Evaluate Your Chosen Pup - Before bringing your new dog home, check their medical records, including vaccination history and any past illnesses or injuries. Observe their behaviour around other animals and humans. It's normal for a pup to be shy at first, but they shouldn't have violent tendencies or lash out at you or other animals.

The Adoption Process

Once you've found the right pup and established a bond, you can begin the adoption process. The Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) allows anyone to provide shelter to dogs under Article 21 of the Constitution.

The adoption process typically includes multiple steps:

• Guidance Counselling: A session with your family to understand your readiness for a pet.
• House Tour: An assessment of the space where the pet will live.
• Interaction Period: Time for the potential owner and pet to bond.
• Trial Period: A short period to see how well the dog adjusts.
• Medical Records Check: Reviewing the dog's health history.
• Finalizing Adoption: Signing the adoption documents.
• Registration: Registering the pet with the government and possibly with the Kennel Club of India (KCI).

Preparing Your Home for an Indie Pup

After completing the adoption process, it's time to welcome your new friend home. Make your home safe and comfortable for the newest family member. Prepare food and water bowls, a leash, dog food, a collar, and a bed. 

Indie pups might not be used to indoor living, so take a few precautions during the acclimation period:

• Store shoes in cabinets.
• Seal dustbins and toilets.
• Remove choking hazards and toxic items like detergents and medicines.
• Keep dangerous foods like grapes out of reach.

To conclude, Adopting an Indie dog is a wonderful choice. You give a stray dog a better life while gaining a loving and intelligent companion. By adopting an Indie dog, you also help reduce breed prejudices and animal abuse, as well as avoid any health issues. Make sure to take your time, follow these guidelines, and you'll enjoy a happy and fulfilling relationship with your new pet.