In an odd democracy where compassion often chases common sense, the Supreme Court’s latest order on stray dogs reminds us that love needs a leash. The apex court has instructed that stray dogs be put away from public spaces such as educational institutions, bus stands, railway stations and hospitals across Delhi and the National Capital Region. The execution is up to the state governments which must ensure that these dogs are relocated. The Supreme Court has thus unleashed yet another loud bark-off – between dog lovers and other citizens.