An investigation commissioned by the Animal Welfare Board of India had revealed neglect and abuse of animals at the Dog Breeding Unit at Saidapet in Chennai. The investigation carried out by the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), reportedly found animals with diseases left untreated for months, maintained on minimum food and water and kept in solitary confinement in filthy faeces- strewn rooms.
Releasing the ‘investigation report’ at a press conference here recently, PETA activists claimed that the facility was running in violation of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1960 and called for shutting down of the unit. The report said that many of the dogs at the unit were suffering from diseases like severe mange infestation, dermatitis and other skin infections. One of the dogs had lost much of its hair, had bald spots, scabbing and severe sores, it added.