Maharashtra To Let Retired Police Dogs Stay With Handlers At State Expense

In a major welfare policy shift for the state's canine unit, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday announced that retired police dogs will no longer be put up for adoption to third parties.

Instead, they will remain within the police department alongside their long-time handlers, with all ongoing living and medical expenses fully funded by the Home Department.

Fadnavis said a dog that has served the police force for 10 years should not be made to suffer after retirement. He emphasised that such animals should be cared for and allowed to spend the rest of their lives comfortably.

The decision addresses a long-standing issue regarding the emotional and psychological health of service dogs. After completing 10 years of active duty, these animals were typically rehomed to external adopters.

The sudden separation from their handlers and established routines frequently caused severe mental distress, with many dogs experiencing trauma and refusing food in their new environments.

Canines will officially retire from operational duties after 10 years of service but will stay enrolled in the force to live out their remaining years. The policy ensures the strong bond forged between the dog and its handler during a decade of active service remains uninterrupted.

The Maharashtra Home Department will directly fund all post-retirement costs, including nutrition, healthcare, and daily living needs.

By shifting from external adoption to full state-backed lifetime care, the initiative ensures that retired police dogs receive the comfort and familiar surroundings they require after completing their service.

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