The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has implemented a new rule imposing a ₹10,000 fine on pet owners who abandon their microchipped dogs or cats in public spaces, effective from October 1. Additionally, a ₹5,000 penalty applies for keeping unlicensed pet dogs, and a ₹500 fine is levied for letting dogs off-leash in public areas, aiming to promote responsible pet ownership across the city.
Under this enforcement mechanism, civic officials including veterinary, medical, and sanitary officers will scan lost or stray pets to identify their registered owners through microchips. Owners found abandoning their pets will be held accountable and required to pay the penalty. Dr Rina Dev, founder of Riwild Sanctuary, welcomed the move, highlighting that microchipping creates a clear data trail that benefits both pets and owners and helps address the common issue of pet abandonment in urban areas.
The GCC’s resolution addresses the growing problem of abandoned domestic animals in Chennai, where owners often avoid medical expenses by abandoning pets. The fines for unlicensed dogs and off-leash pets further reinforce responsible pet care. This approach aligns with broader efforts seen in other cities to use technology like microchipping to track and reduce stray animal populations while encouraging pet registration and licensing.
The new fines and enforcement rules came into force on October 1, marking a significant step by the Greater Chennai Corporation to curb pet abandonment and promote animal welfare in the city, according to livemint.com.