Chennai Implements New Pet Ownership Guidelines

In response to a recent Rottweiler attack on a five-year-old girl, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has issued new guidelines for pet ownership. Now, pet owners must obtain a pet licence and an anti-rabies certificate before taking their pets for a walk in public spaces. Only pets with verified licences and vaccine certificates will be allowed in parks, beaches, and streets.

Additionally, owners of ‘ferocious breed’ dogs can only walk one dog on a leash, and the dog must be muzzled. With just 236 pets out of an estimated 25,000 licensed, the GCC is encouraging residents to apply for licences online, streamlining the process. Meanwhile, the girl attacked by Rottweilers remains in the ICU, and the pet owners have shifted their dogs to Melur near Madurai under the observation of local health officials. The police have arrested the owners under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and promised a thorough investigation into the incident.