As a society, we love our pets. Our dogs, with their wagging tails, soulful eyes, and unending
loyalty, are more than just animals. They’re family. But in our attempts to keep them safe or ‘under control’, we sometimes forget that their needs go beyond just basic care. One of the most common mistakes we make as pet owners is thinking that putting our dogs on a leash for extended periods is okay. But, in truth, it’s a form of cruelty, even if we don’t realize it.
I get it, leashes are essential. They keep dogs safe, they keep us in control, and they let us take our furry friends out into the world. But when a dog is tied down or leashed for way too long, it isn’t just about the safety or convenience of the human. It’s about the dog’s well-being – physically, mentally, and emotionally.
The Physical Toll on Dogs
Think about it, how would you feel if you were tied up and unable to move around freely? It’s not just frustrating, it’s painful. The same goes for dogs. Being tethered for too long causes them physical discomfort. They can suffer from muscle strain, joint pain, and even stress on their heart and lungs. And some dogs are more vulnerable. Larger breeds, for example, might experience joint issues like hip dysplasia if they’re confined to a leash for hours at a time. Dogs are meant to run, jump, and play. They thrive when they have the freedom to explore their environment, stretch their legs, and engage in their natural behaviors. Keeping them leashed for too long takes that away.
The Mental and Emotional Impact
Now, beyond the physical, there’s the emotional side. Imagine the mental toll of not being able to roam, sniff, or interact with the world the way your instincts tell you to. Dogs, like humans, need stimulation. When they’re confined on a leash for too long, they can get bored, frustrated, and anxious. A dog on a leash for hours might start showing signs of stress: excessive barking,
destructive behavior, or even aggression. It’s not just a ‘bad dog’ problem. It’s a sign that the dog is not getting the proper mental stimulation. In fact, there’s a term for it learned helplessness. This happens when an animal feels they have no control over their surroundings. Over time, it leads to anxiety and fear-based behaviors. As much as we try to control our dogs for their safety, they deserve to feel free, to experience joy, to chase a ball without restrictions.
When Is It Okay to Tie Them Up, and When Is It Not?
There are times when it’s necessary to leash or tie up your dog. For example, during training
sessions or when you’re teaching them important behaviors, a leash can be helpful. It provides a controlled space for both the dog and the owner to ensure safety and proper behavior. Training your dog to walk on a leash or teaching them commands involves time and patience, and yes, a leash helps establish boundaries.
But here’s the thing, when it crosses the line into cruelty is when you tie them up without
considering their well-being. One of the most common (and most avoidable) mistakes I see is when owners tie their dogs outside shops or in public spaces while they run errands. You go inside for 10 minutes, thinking it’s no big deal. But that 10 minutes is an eternity for your dog, especially when they’re in an unfamiliar place. The stress, confusion, and fear of being left alone in an unknown area can cause anxiety and emotional distress for your dog. And that’s not okay.
Think about it, if you were left outside a busy store for hours on end, tied to a post, unable to do
anything but wait, how would you feel? Our dogs experience the same emotions. They can’t
comprehend the situation the way we do, and that confusion often leads to stress and panic.
A Philosophy of Freedom
In Hindu philosophy, there is a deep understanding of the connection between all living beings,
which echoes through the Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita. One of the core principles is that all creatures, whether human or animal, have their own innate freedom and dignity. The Bhagavad Gita speaks of the interconnectedness of life and how everything in nature is driven by a purpose.
Just as humans are bound to seek freedom and growth, animals too have a right to live freely within the natural order. To tie a dog down is to restrict its true essence, its natural behavior, and its dignity. This isn’t just about being ‘nice’ to animals, it’s about respecting their inherent rights as living beings. This respect for freedom is something ancient wisdom teaches us: to not cause harm to others, whether human or animal, is a reflection of our own humanity.
Legal Perspective
Now, if you’re wondering about the legality of all this, it’s essential to consider animal welfare
laws in India. Under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, cruelty to animals is
punishable by law. While this legislation doesn’t specifically address the issue of prolonged
leashing, it does make it clear that causing unnecessary suffering to animals is not acceptable.
In many places, laws around animal welfare are gradually evolving to include more specific
regulations about confinement and care. If a dog is leashed or confined for long hours and shows signs of distress, the situation could potentially fall under cruelty. So, in addition to the moral responsibility, there is also a legal obligation to treat animals with kindness, dignity, and respect.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, we’re not just responsible for our dogs’ physical needs, but also their
emotional and mental well-being. It’s not about keeping them in check for our convenience. It’s about giving them a life that reflects their true nature. Leashing them for too long doesn’t just limit their movement; it limits their happiness.
As we move forward in our journey to be better companions to our furry friends, let’s take a
moment to reflect on how we treat them, not just as pets, but as living beings who deserve the same freedom and respect that we so often take for granted.