For public safety, the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation (MC) is considering banning six ‘fierce’ dog breeds – American Bull Dog, American Pitbull, Bull Terrier, Cane Corso, Dogo Argentino and Rottweiler – in the city.
In the House meeting scheduled for October 17, the civic body is expected to present the agenda of amending the existing dog regulations, which includes the proposal to ban these breeds. As per the proposal, if allowed, pet owners will not be allowed to keep all six breeds. If found in possession of the banned breeds, owners will face prosecution for breaching dog regulations and the animal will also be seized with immediate effect.
The ban will not apply to dogs registered with the MC before these regulations come into force. These dogs must, however, be muzzled and kept on a leash at all times during walks, in order to avoid any untoward accidents. Owners are also advised to have these dogs trained through trainers registered with MC.
The Panchkula MC House, in its meeting on September 29 last year, decided to ban Pitbulls and Rottweilers, citing deadly incidents in neighboring states.
Other changes in dog statuses
The MC also made changes in other clauses to avoid conflicts between dog owners/lovers and others. In the new clause, volunteers/NGOs/dog lovers, groomers, pet breeders, traders, dog trainers and owners of dog hostels and daycare centers are also required to register with the MC. Apart from this, for registration of a pet dog, it will be mandatory to obtain a pet vaccination certificate from a government or private veterinary doctor.
The MC also asked residents’ welfare associations to designate a place in their locality to feed community dogs in the area. The MC has also strictly ruled that dog owners should not allow their pets to defecate in public places.