Dr. Dinesh B.D.S(Cal Univ), PGDHHM, PGDMLS, PGDMC
Dental Surgeon
The scheduling and logistical planning of the proposed dog show at ITF Ground, Srivijayapuram, on December 28, 2025, merit a careful re-evaluation. Conducting such an event at 3 p.m, runs counter to basic canine physiology and welfare considerations. This period coincides with peak daytime heat, when dogs are naturally inclined to rest. Exposure to high temperatures can lead to exhaustion, excessive panting, dehydration, and heat stress, thereby undermining both animal well-being and the quality of participation. A shift of the event to the early evening hours, preferably around 6 p.m., would be far more humane and practical.
Equally concerning is the apparent absence of essential infrastructure at the venue. The lack of shaded resting areas and assured water facilities poses avoidable risks to participating animals, particularly in tropical conditions. These are not ancillary conveniences but fundamental requirements for any event involving animals.
From an operational standpoint, the effectiveness of audio-visual arrangements also deserves attention. Projector-based displays are rendered largely ineffective under direct sunlight, where glare washes out visual content entirely. Daytime scheduling thus compromises the very purpose of such demonstrations. In addition, sound management must be approached with sensitivity. Dogs are acutely responsive to noise, and an active or loud sound system can easily distract or distress them. The sound system at the venue should therefore be kept at a near-nil level, used sparingly and only when essential. Clear communication can instead be ensured by providing pet dog handlers with cordless microphones, allowing precise commands without contributing to auditory stress.
These concerns are not merely theoretical. Having participated in dog shows on three occasions, I have personally observed the difficulties faced by both dogs and pet handlers. High temperatures and excessive ambient noise often result in poor cooperation from dogs, not due to lack of training, but because of physical discomfort and sensory overload. The presence of multiple dogs in close proximity, combined with heat and sound, further heightens anxiety and makes it challenging to maintain calm and control.
Finally, the orderly conduct of such events requires a clearly demarcated arena and viewing zones. Proper separation between participants and spectators would enable the audience to observe proceedings without impeding handlers or unsettling the animals.
Taken together, these measures would not only improve the quality and professionalism of the event but also reflect a responsible commitment to animal welfare, an aspect that should remain central to any public programme involving animals.
