Bengaluru to Exempt Rescued and Indie Dogs from Licence Fee

Bengaluru: The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) has proposed new pet rules that would make dog licences mandatory across the city. Under the draft guidelines, all pet dog owners may soon be required to register their animals with the civic authority and obtain an official licence.

The move is aimed at improving public safety, ensuring responsible pet ownership, and keeping better track of vaccinations, especially against rabies. Officials say a proper licensing system will help maintain records of pet dogs in Bengaluru and make it easier to enforce health and safety standards.

A key highlight of the proposal is that indie dogs and rescued animals may be exempted from paying the licence fee. While these dogs would still need to be registered, their owners would not have to pay the standard charge. The exemption is intended to encourage adoption of stray and native Indian breed dogs instead of buying expensive pedigree breeds.

Under the draft rules, pet owners may be required to submit details such as vaccination records and basic identification information at the time of registration. Microchipping could also become part of the process to help identify lost pets and ensure accountability in case of complaints.

Bengaluru earlier had a licensing system under the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), but enforcement was inconsistent. The new GBA framework aims to create a clearer and more structured system for regulating pet ownership in the city.

The final licence fee amount, renewal period, and penalties for non-compliance are yet to be officially announced. The draft rules are currently under discussion, and authorities are expected to seek feedback before implementing them.

If approved, the new pet dog licence rules could bring significant changes for dog owners in Bengaluru while promoting adoption and responsible care of animals across the city.