RWAs, AOAs will now be responsible for stray dogs in Ghaziabad

Registration of pet dogs is now mandatory as per the revised pet policy by the Ghaziabad municipal body.

Keeping in view the series of incidents of stray dog bites and enforcing responsible pet ownership rules, the Ghaziabad Municipal Corporation (GMC) revised its pet dog policy on September 2023, with the following key changes:

Registration of pet dogs is now mandatory and the following changes have been incorporated in the revised pet policy by the Ghaziabad municipal body.

Dog owners must register their pets with the GMC within 15 days of ownership.

The registration fee is Rs. 1,000 for the first year and Rs. 500 for renewal each year.

There is a limit of four pet dogs per household. This limit applies to both independent houses and flats in residential societies.

Pet dogs must be vaccinated against rabies and other common diseases. Dog owners must provide proof of vaccination when registering their pets.

Pet dogs must be kept on a leash in public places. This includes parks, streets, and other public areas.

Pet dogs must be muzzled when in lifts, parks, and other public places. However, there will be relaxations in the muzzle rule during extreme heat conditions.

Role of Resident Welfare Associations of Ghaziabad

The revised policy also includes provisions for the care and welfare of stray dogs. Resident welfare associations (RWAs) and apartment owners associations (AOAs) are now responsible for stray dogs in their communities. They must identify feeding points for stray dogs in consultation with dog lovers.

The GMC has also set up a dedicated pet dog squad to enforce the new policy. The squad will be responsible for registering pet dogs, conducting inspections, and taking action against violators.

The revised policy has been welcomed by animal welfare activists, but some residents have expressed concerns about the limit on the number of pet dogs per household and the requirement to muzzle pet dogs in public places.

This is been seen as a positive step in the right direction by people who have been voicing their concerns about responsible pet ownership. The revised pet dog policy is a positive step towards promoting responsible pet ownership and ensuring the safety of both pets and people in Ghaziabad city.