In India, where most cars are parked on open streets, stray dogs and monkeys can be a real threat to your vehicle's safety. While gated societies often shield vehicles from thieves, stray dogs and monkeys pose a unique threat. Scratched paint, chewed wipers, and dented roofs are common issues caused by these animals. Is it immoral to use anti-dog covers as Pet lovers say? Let's understand.

Before I dive into why an anti-dog car cover is a must-have, let me clarify something: I have two dogs of my own, and our Co-founder has a cat. So, we’re not here to villainize animals. In fact, this blog stems from an interesting story he shared.

When his dad served as the Additional District Magistrate of Patna, their driver and bodyguard were instructed not to disturb a pregnant stray dog while the vehicle was parked post-office hours. The dog had chosen the rooftop of his official vehicle, a Mahindra Scorpio, as her safe haven. It was a heartwarming gesture for the dog, but it also brought to light the practical challenges of letting a vehicle be a stray dog's place to rest.

As kind as it may seem to let animals rest on your car, it’s not the wisest choice. Here’s the thing: animals don’t understand the value of your possessions. They don’t see the difference between scratching the hood of a Mercedes-Benz and scratching a wooden bench. They don't have to be worried about dents, repaints and bitten mud flaps. For them, it is their territory.

Stray animals, especially dogs and monkeys, are drawn to car rooftops and bonnets for warmth, particularly in winters. The residual heat from your car engine offers them much-needed comfort. But this innocent behavior can quickly turn into a problem:

Scratches and Dents: Nails and paws scraping the paintwork.

Territory Marking: Once they claim your car as their territory, expect regular visits.

Hygiene Issues: Pooping or leaving dirt behind on your car’s surface.

While it’s noble to care for animals, it’s equally important to protect your property and maintain peace of mind.

Moral implications of not letting Dogs make your car their cozy territory

(Image is for representation)

Years ago, when I lived in Noida, I often saw a peculiar sight in my neighborhood. A woman would yell at a man for chasing away stray dogs that rested on his car. The man would pick up bricks to scare them off, and the lady, a staunch dog lover, would scold him fiercely. Back then, I thought she was one of those PETA activists who loved animals more than logic. My friends and I often joked about her fiery dedication.

But then, in 2018, my family brought home our first car—a Baleno. Within weeks, stray dogs marked it as their territory. Scratches on the bonnet, paw prints on the windshield, and the occasional dent became regular occurrences. It was then that I started understanding the man’s frustration.

By 2021, things changed. My sister adopted two huskies from her friend who was moving to Bengaluru and couldn’t take them along. Having dogs at home taught me something about animal behavior—they are trainable. Our huskies, though playful, never climb on cars or furniture because they’ve been taught boundaries. That’s when it hit me: the stray dogs weren’t at fault. They simply had no one to guide them.

However, my empathy for stray animals didn’t erase the practical challenges. Recently, I saw a news report of a monkey jumping on a car’s sunroof and smashing it. The cost of repair will be eye-watering fr sure, and I couldn’t help but feel for the car owner. Stray animals, like dogs and monkeys, don’t mean harm, but their actions can lead to costly consequences.

Is It Really Rude to Keep Stray Animals Away?

At first, I found anti-dog car covers and mats a bit harsh. It seemed rude to deny a struggling stray animal a warm place to rest. But then I asked myself: if not letting stray dogs into your bedroom isn’t considered rude, why should keeping them off your car be any different? Protecting your property doesn’t make you heartless—it makes you practical.

I eventually bought an anti-dog car mat for my Baleno. Six years in, the car still gets the occasional rooftop visitor even in Gurugram, but the scratches and damage have reduced significantly. The mat was a small investment that saved me from repeated frustrations.

In case you are planning to buy an anti-dog mat for your car, you can go for

Car Cover with Advanced Animal Protection Safeguard Your Vehicle from Dogs and Cats Without Harming Them for Baleno 2022-2024(XL)

I am using it, it is fairly cost effective and covers both, bonnet and roof.

You are not at fault, Municipality is at fault

Just as taking care of people is the responsibility of government bodies, taking care of stray animals is the responsibility of municipal authorities. While we can contribute by showing compassion and offering temporary care, the long-term solution lies in organized efforts like sterilization, vaccination drives, and creating safe spaces for stray animals.

If you’re feeling guilty about keeping stray dogs or monkeys away from your car, let me assure you—there’s no need for a guilt trip. Setting boundaries doesn’t make you cruel; it makes you practical. If someone in your locality scolds or yells at you for not letting animals rest on your car, calmly direct them to the municipality or relevant animal welfare organizations. They are the ones equipped to provide proper care for these animals, not individuals.