Horror in Hyderabad: Stray dogs allegedly turned into ‘living blood banks’

Hyderabad: A veterinarian associated with a pet care facility in Shaikpet has come under scrutiny following serious allegations of illegally capturing stray dogs and extracting their blood for commercial use.

According to a report by Hyderabad-based NewsMeter, stray dogs were allegedly lured with food, captured from various parts of the city, and kept within the facility under poor conditions. Activists claim the animals were subjected to repeated blood extraction while being deprived of adequate food, water, and medical care.

The extracted blood was reportedly sold to pet owners for transfusions, with charges ranging between Rs 18,000 and Rs 25,000 per session, and in some cases going up to Rs 30,000 for 350 ml.

According to a New Indian Express report, animal welfare activists allege that the operation may involve an unlicensed blood bank, potentially violating provisions of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 and other veterinary regulations. They have raised concerns over the ethical implications of using street dogs as “living blood banks” for sick pets.

The issue has been reportedly taken up by People for Animals (PFA), which confirmed receiving multiple complaints. PFA has also urged the Veterinary Council of India and the State Drug Control Administration to examine the alleged unauthorised blood collection and distribution network.

Officials from the Animal Husbandry Department have not yet responded to the allegations. Meanwhile, animal rights groups have called for immediate action, stating that the case highlights serious concerns about the exploitation of animals for profit.