Maharashtra to Keep Retired Police Dogs With Handlers and Cover Lifetime Care Costs

MUMBAI — Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Saturday that retired police dogs will no longer be put up for adoption to third parties, marking a significant policy shift aimed at improving the welfare of the state's canine unit.

Under the new policy, canines will remain within the police department alongside their long-time handlers after completing their service. All ongoing living and medical expenses for the animals will be fully funded by the state's Home Department.

Fadnavis stated that a dog that has served the police force for 10 years should not be made to suffer after retirement. He emphasised that these animals must be cared for properly and allowed to live out the rest of their lives in comfort.

The decision resolves a long-standing concern regarding the emotional and psychological well-being of service dogs in the state. Previously, upon completing 10 years of active duty, service dogs were routinely rehomed with external adopters.

That practice frequently led to severe mental distress for the animals. The sudden separation from their regular handlers and familiar routines caused many dogs to experience trauma and refuse food after being placed into new environments.

Under the updated regulations, police canines will officially retire from operational duties after reaching 10 years of active service. However, they will remain officially enrolled in the force to spend their remaining years with their handlers under full state care.