The BJP-led Maharashtra government on Saturday turned over a new leaf by deciding to let retired police dogs stay with the forces after their retirement.Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis took the call amid growing demands to change the practice of giving away retired and trained canines for adoption after they retire.Under present rules, a police dog retires after completing 10 years of service.”The practice has been to give away retired police dogs in adoption elsewhere. This has been seen to adversely affect the mental health of adopted canines, and many even refuse to eat,” the government sources in Maharashtra said.CM Fadnavis said a dog that has served the police force for 10 years should not be made to suffer after retirement.”We must care for the canines who serve us and must allow them to spend the rest of their lives comfortably,” Fadnavis said.The new order states that police dogs will retire from active duty after 10 years but will continue to remain with the police force and their handlers. The Home Department will bear the expenses for their food and other associated requirements. The decision aims to ensure the welfare of retired police dogs while preserving their bond with their handlers.