State Govt To Write To Local Bodies to Enforce Ban on 23 Dog Breeds Amid Safety Concerns
State Govt To Write To Local Bodies to Enforce Ban on 23 Dog Breeds Amid Safety Concerns(representatioanal Image)
Amid rising concerns over safety due to incidents involving specific dog breeds, the central government has taken decisive action by imposing a nationwide ban on the import, breeding, and sale of 23 foreign dog breeds for pet purposes. Following a recent directive from the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, the State Animal Husbandry department is set to instruct all local bodies to enforce this ban within their jurisdictions.
According to officials, registered breeders have been ordered to cease breeding, selling, and keeping these 23 dog breeds, which are deemed to be potentially ferocious or dangerous. Moreover, local bodies will be tasked with sterilizing pet dogs of these breeds to prevent further breeding.
Dr. Ankush Parihar, deputy commissioner of the Animal Husbandry Department in Pune district, emphasized the halt in issuing licenses for breeding these breeds and announced forthcoming directives to be issued to local bodies for implementation.
The banned breeds include Pitbull Terrier, Tosa Inu, American Staffordshire Terrier, and others, as outlined in a circular. However, this decision has faced opposition from pet lovers and animal activists nationwide.
Legal challenges have arisen, with the Karnataka High Court issuing a stay on the circular, and the Calcutta High Court granting a partial stay, specifically addressing the ban’s commercial aspects. The Delhi High Court has also sought the Centre’s response to a petition challenging the circular.
While acknowledging the concerns, experts stress that banning breeds may not be a comprehensive solution. They emphasize the importance of responsible pet ownership, including providing adequate space, training, and proper handling.
Dr. Sarika Funde, veterinary superintendent of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), affirmed readiness to implement the directives once received, indicating that discussions with the Municipal Commissioner are already underway to strategize and ensure effective rule enforcement.
