1 dog dies, 2 collapse at Madras Canine Club’s show

September 14, 2009

7551.cms

1 dog dies, 2 collapse at show

Shalini Umachandran, TNN 14 September 2009, 03:06am IST

CHENNAI: Sunday’s heat and humidity took its toll at The Madras Canine Club’s

championship show where a Rottweiler collapsed and died due to

dehydration and two mastiffs were hospitalised, drawing criticism from animal

lovers and vets who said shows held in such conditions are exhausting and

humiliating for the animals.

The Rottweiler had completed its round in the show ring before it collapsed

around 2 pm. “The Rottweiler died as it was dehydrated,” said Sanjay Reddy,

committee member, Madras Canine Club. “We had a vet and emergency facilities

available, but we were informed too late,” he said. Two Neopolitan mastiffs from

Bangalore were also severely dehydrated and taken to hospital for treatment.

The day’s temperature hovered at 35oC around noon, but the heat was unusual for

a September afternoon. Most dogs at the show were carefully bred pedigrees used

to air-conditioned comfort. “These dogs are not used to the heat as they are

always in the a/c,” said Sibi, a handler from Mayiladuthirai who was showing two

Saint Bernards — one from Hyderabad and the other from Tiruchi — for their

owners.

Over 350 dogs participated in the club’s championship dog show held at the

University Union Grounds, Chetpet. As the afternoon progressed, German Shepherds

and Golden Retrievers lay panting on sheets, Saint Bernards rolled in the mud

while handlers tried to groom them, Great Danes stood patiently as owners

squirted water to keep them cool, and Chihuahuas, miniature Pomeranians and pugs

looked exhausted.

--

Thank you for your compassion !

With best regards,

Debasis Chakrabarti

Compassionate Crusaders Trust

Recommended Posts