Being a dog feeder/ carer comes with its share of nasty looks and fights! But you’ve got to do what you’ve got to do. It’s inspiring to see how Sailesh navigates this journey and makes it look seamless!
– by Sailesh Ghelani
It isn’t easy being a feeder or carer, and we salute all the unsung heroes! Kudos to your efforts and keep up the good work!
Replying to Hate with Facts and Heart
It helps to keep a calm, measured voice, acknowledge the other person’s concern (“I understand your worry about safety/cleanliness”), and then offer a rational reply. This combination often diffuses hostility and opens space for empathy. That being said, you are not responsible for every animal that may bite/scratch, or scare someone, so please stand up for yourself firmly.
Animal feeders and carers perform a very useful function in society by taking care of dogs and cats and ensuring they are fed/medically attended to and their population is kept in check.
Respond with Confidence and Compassion
“I’ve had them sterilised and vaccinated—this keeps everyone safer.” (Please ensure that you do this for your animals)
“Well-fed dogs are calm and less likely to bark, bite, or chase.”
“Feeding reduces garbage-scattering and keeps the place cleaner.”
“Territorial dogs protect the area from unknown strays and intruders.”
“The law supports responsible feeding—it’s a protected activity.”
“Kindness towards animals reflects the values of our community.”
“We don’t just feed—we clean, give medical help, and monitor them.”
“Children learn compassion by watching how we treat animals.”
“The animals live here too—coexistence makes life safer for all.”
“I understand your concern—let’s find a way that works for both of us.”
When they say – You’re Making a Mess Feeding Them
No, the dogs will eat it all up, and so will the crows. It will be clean, or we will tidy up. But when people throw garbage, spit, pee, or litter everywhere, that will make a mess. Do you tell them not to?
A lot of people also have this problem with feeders, that if you feed the dog here (in a specific area), they will remain there.
I answer them that they will stay even if not fed by me. Someone else will end up feeding. A hungry animal can become aggressive. When fed regularly, they’re calmer, friendlier, and less likely to chase or bite people. In fact, they’ll stop other unknown dogs from entering the area.
Lesson in Compassion and Coexistence
Dogs are territorial by nature. When they’re well-fed and cared for, they guard the area and prevent unknown dogs/people from entering, which keeps everyone safer. If kids feed them, they learn compassion, and the dogs will show love and be protective of them.
Love Them Enough to Sterilize Them
I make sure the dogs are sterilised and vaccinated, and request you, as feeders or caretakers, to please do the same. This keeps their numbers under control and protects the community from rabies. They are territorial, so they won’t allow dogs from other areas to come into this area.
Because we take care of them, they have been vaccinated and sterilised, so there won’t be rabies. Also, if a person gets bitten, they can take a few shots on the arm after consulting the doctor for prevention and peace of mind, just like we do for any other illness.
Calm, Clear, and Correct
Many people tell us, ‘It’s against the law.’ So far, the laws have all been towards taking care of community animals responsibly. Feeding stray animals is protected under Indian law and backed by the Animal Welfare Board of India.
(Sailesh Ghelani is a digital content and website creation business owner, he has helped with feeding, rehabilitation, vaccination and sterilisation of indie dogs and cats in Mumbai and has written and contributed to articles about issues related to animal welfare).