PMC Conducts Survey to Track Households with More Than Five Pets
PMC Conducts Survey to Track Households with More Than Five Pets
Pune: In response to the recent relocation of over 300 cats from a housing society in Hadapsar, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has launched a survey to identify households that own more than five cats or dogs. However, officials clarified that no formal regulations currently limit the number of pets in residential areas.
Dr. Sarika Funde-Bhosale, PMC’s chief veterinary officer, stated, “We are conducting this survey to assess the scale of pet ownership and address concerns related to hygiene and the well-being of both animals and residents. While there are no specific guidelines from the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) restricting the number of pets, we urge owners to ensure proper care and cleanliness.”
The Hadapsar incident has sparked a debate between those citing concerns over hygiene, noise, and safety, and others advocating for responsible pet ownership without arbitrary restrictions. The situation also highlights challenges in managing large numbers of pets in densely populated areas.
Following discussions led by Additional Municipal Commissioner Prithviraj B. P., the PMC has directed ward offices to collect information on households with more than five cats or dogs without proper authorization. A letter issued on Monday instructed all ward commissioners to report such cases within their jurisdictions.
A copy of the letter, accessed by Hindustan Times, states, “All ward offices must submit a report on unauthorized pet ownership exceeding five animals. Reports should include details of such cases in homes, flats, and bungalows under their jurisdiction.”
Dr. Funde-Bhosale added that ward officers would gather information from individuals, breeders, and organizations. The PMC also plans to seek AWBI guidelines on regulating pet numbers to prevent nuisance while ensuring animal welfare. Additionally, pet owners will be encouraged to vaccinate and sterilize their animals.
PMC officials are considering enforcement measures under the Maharashtra Municipal Corporation Act, 1949, based on the survey findings. The initiative also aims to curb illegal animal breeding in coordination with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), Pune district, and the animal husbandry department.
Animal welfare activists have expressed concerns over PMC’s approach. Padmini Stump from Mission Impossible argued that the focus should be on illegal breeders rather than responsible pet owners. “Indiscriminate breeding has led to many Indian dogs and cats becoming homeless. Instead of targeting people who care for these animals, authorities should crack down on breeders,” she said.
Stump warned that if PMC enforces limits on pet ownership, animals might be abandoned, worsening the city’s stray population. She stressed that pet owners provide shelter, food, and medical care, preventing more animals from ending up on the streets.
The survey’s findings are expected to influence future policies on pet ownership and animal welfare in Pune.
