Bengaluru Introduces New Guidelines for Feeding Community Animals
Bengaluru Introduces New Guidelines for Feeding Community Animals
The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has unveiled updated guidelines concerning the feeding of community animals in public areas. The new rules aim to regulate the practice to ensure the well-being of both animals and the public.
Under the revised regulations, residents are encouraged to feed animals only if they can maintain a regular feeding schedule. Irregular feeding can result in increased restlessness and aggression among dogs and cats. Additionally, the guidelines stipulate that feeding should be restricted to between 5 am and 11.30 pm, and discourage offering raw meat and sugary treats, which may cause hyperactivity in dogs.
To prevent rodent issues, individuals are advised to place leftover food on the curbside rather than in more public spaces. Moreover, feeding should be avoided during peak times when public density is high to mitigate the risk of animals displaying aggressive behavior.
Residents Welfare Associations (RWAs) and apartment owners are mandated to review their bylaws to ensure they do not negatively impact domestic animals and to adhere to existing animal welfare regulations. The guidelines further recommend that RWAs allow pets in common areas and elevators if they are on a leash, and prohibit the mandatory use of muzzles. It is emphasized that associations cannot impose bans on pets, affirming that all citizens have the right to both care for the environment and select their preferred pets.
Pet owners are urged to be diligent about their pets’ health by keeping them clean, properly groomed, and up-to-date with vaccinations and deworming. Additionally, public institutions, educational organizations, and tech parks are advised to avoid using sticks or security measures to deter community animals, as these practices are deemed illegal. Instead, these establishments should designate specific feeding areas and times to facilitate responsible feeding by students, employees, and other interested individuals.
