Three dogs per household? Ernakulam District panchayat weighs new pet rules

Authorities in Ernakulam are considering new regulations to limit the number of pet dogs per household to two or three to address stray dog management and abandonment issues. The proposed policy includes mandatory licensing, microchipping, and stricter oversight for breeders.
Why it matters
This policy reflects a growing urban challenge in managing pet ownership and public safety in densely populated regions.
The number of pet dogs a person can own in Ernakulam is likely to be limited shortly. The district authorities are reportedly considering limiting the number of pet dogs per household to two or three. They have started discussions with various stakeholders to determine a feasible limit.
“It won’t be feasible to keep more than three dogs in a house in the current scenario. We are in the process of arriving at a feasible number for individual dog owners. There would be separate guidelines and policies for dog breeders. The licensing regime will also be strengthened,” said K.G. Radhakrishnan, chairperson, Ernakulam District Panchayat.
The district authorities are also working on a comprehensive stray dog management programme. The plans include sterilisation and vaccination, licensing of breeders, and licensing and microchipping of pet dogs.
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