Big house, big responsibility: Govt unveils new rules for owners of aggressive dog breeds
Dehradun (The Uttam Hindu) : Taking seriously the increasing number of dog bite cases in Dehradun, the capital of Uttarakhand, the Municipal Corporation has implemented strict new bylaws regarding both pet and stray dogs. These rules, enacted in accordance with Supreme Court directives, aim to ensure the safety of citizens and promote responsible behavior towards dogs.
Under the new rules , a license is now mandatory for dog ownership in Dehradun. Registration of every pet dog three months of age or older is mandatory, with a validity period of one year. Legal action will be taken against those found without registration. Furthermore, the license will be automatically revoked upon the expiry of the anti-rabies vaccination.
Special strictness on aggressive breeds:
The Municipal Corporation has set strict rules for aggressive breeds like Pitbull, Rottweiler, Dogo Argentino, American Bulldog. A house with a minimum area of 300 square yards will be mandatory for keeping these breeds. An annual license fee of Rs 2000 has been fixed for them. After completion of one year of age, sterilization of these dogs will be mandatory and the certificate will have to be submitted to the Municipal Corporation. A complete ban has been imposed on breeding of these breeds. People who are already keeping such dogs will have to submit the documents related to purchase and sterilization within three months.
Action on barking, biting and open defecation
As per the bylaws, it will be prohibited to take pet dogs to public places without leash and muzzle. A challan will be issued for defecating in the open. In case of dog bite, a fine will be imposed based on the severity of the injury, whereas in serious cases, an FIR can be lodged against the dog owner and the dog can also be confiscated. There is also a provision for notice and challan on receiving complaint of excessive barking.
A shelter is mandatory for those with more than five dogs. It's mandatory for those owning five or more dogs to establish a private dog shelter. This requires permission from the Uttarakhand Animal Welfare Board, notification to the Municipal Corporation, and an annual license fee of ₹1,000. If the shelter is located near a residential area, a no-objection certificate from neighbors is also required.
Feeding points for stray dogs will be designated
The Municipal Corporation will establish designated feeding points for stray dogs in colonies and resident welfare societies. Action will be taken against feeding dogs near schools, religious places, crowded areas, and at entry and exit points of colonies. The Municipal Corporation will also soon launch a comprehensive awareness campaign to ensure effective implementation of the rules.