GCC halts pet licences for Pit Bulls and Rottweilers

Residents within the jurisdiction of the Greater Chennai Corporation are now subject to new regulations concerning the ownership of certain dog breeds, reflecting growing concerns about public safety. Specifically, applications for new licenses or renewals for Pit Bull and Rottweiler dogs have been prohibited following a recent decision by the civic council. This move aims to address issues related to the aggressive nature attributed to these breeds. Additionally, strict enforcement of leashing and muzzling protocols for all pet dogs in public spaces has been mandated to ensure community safety and compliance with legal standards.

Restrictions on Licensing for Specific Dog Breeds

Effective immediately, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has barred the issuance and renewal of dog licenses for Pit Bull and Rottweiler breeds, citing their classification as potentially risky. This policy was ratified by the Corporation Council and took effect from the following day. Owners found in violation-either by possessing unlicensed dogs of these breeds or failing to renew existing licenses-face a significant penalty of ₹1 lakh. Furthermore, all dog owners must adhere to mandatory leashing and muzzling rules when their pets are in public areas, with non-compliance resulting in fines of ₹5,000.

Enhanced Measures for Stray Dog Management

In alignment with directives from the Supreme Court of India, the GCC has introduced updated standard operating procedures (SOPs) to better manage the stray dog population. One key requirement is the construction of secure compound walls and gates around government and public institution premises within an eight-week timeframe to prevent stray dog intrusion. Regular inspections, scheduled at least quarterly, will be conducted to ensure these areas remain free of stray animals. Any dogs found within these premises will be captured, sterilized, vaccinated against rabies, and relocated to authorized shelters or entrusted to volunteers.

Animal Birth Control and Shelter Protocols

Captured stray dogs will undergo Animal Birth Control (ABC) surgery and receive anti-rabies vaccinations in accordance with the Animal Birth Control Rules,2023. Importantly, these animals will not be released back into the original locations but will be transferred to NGOs, dog shelters, or volunteer caretakers for permanent housing. Shelters are obligated to maintain detailed records of all dogs under their care, provide consistent feeding and medical attention, and cooperate fully with inspections conducted by GCC veterinary officials.

Support and Responsibilities for Shelters and Volunteers

The Corporation has committed to funding the feeding costs at a rate of ₹50 per dog per day. Additionally, shelters housing 20 or more dogs will receive financial support to pay two workers ₹750 per day each, ensuring adequate care and maintenance. Volunteers who adopt rescued dogs without charge must sign a formal commitment bond, guaranteeing the animals’ proper upkeep and welfare as stipulated by the new regulations.

Important Facts: Key Points to Remember

• The Greater Chennai Corporation banned new licenses and renewals for Pit Bull and Rottweiler breeds starting from the day after the council resolution.
• Owners without valid licenses for these breeds face a fine of ₹1 lakh.
• Leashing and muzzling of all pet dogs in public is mandatory,with a ₹5,000 penalty for violations.
• Government and public institutions must build compound walls and gates within eight weeks to block stray dog entry.
• Quarterly inspections are required to ensure no stray dogs are present on institutional premises.
• stray dogs caught on these premises must undergo sterilization and anti-rabies vaccination as per the animal Birth Control Rules, 2023.
• Captured dogs will be relocated to shelters or volunteers, not returned to original locations.
• Shelters must maintain accurate records and provide regular feeding and medical care.
• The Corporation provides ₹50 per dog per day for feeding and ₹750 per day wages for two workers in shelters with 20+ dogs.
• Volunteers adopting dogs must sign a commitment bond to ensure proper care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why has the Greater Chennai Corporation banned licenses for Pit Bull and Rottweiler breeds? The ban is due to concerns over the aggressive behavior associated with these breeds, aiming to enhance public safety.

Q: What penalties apply to owners who do not have valid licenses for these restricted breeds? Owners without valid licenses face a fine of ₹1 lakh as per the GCC regulations.

Q: Are all dog owners required to muzzle and leash their pets in public? Yes, all pet dogs must be leashed and muzzled in public spaces to prevent incidents, with fines imposed for non-compliance.

Q: What steps are being taken to manage stray dogs in government and public institution areas? The GCC mandates construction of barriers, regular inspections, and the capture, sterilization, vaccination, and relocation of stray dogs found on these premises.

Q: How does the Corporation support shelters and volunteers caring for stray dogs? The GCC provides financial assistance for feeding costs and wages for shelter workers, and requires volunteers to sign commitment bonds to ensure proper animal care.