Ghaziabad Mandates Pet Dog Registration Amid Bite Rise

Ghaziabad: The Ghaziabad Municipal Corporation (GMC) has introduced a new set of rules making pet dog registration mandatory in the city. The decision comes amid increasing reports of dog bite cases in residential societies and public spaces, sparking concerns over safety and accountability.

Under the new policy, every pet dog in Ghaziabad must be registered with the municipal body. Owners are required to pay an INR. 1,000 registration fee per dog, followed by an annual renewal fee of INR 500. Along with this, documents such as proof of anti-rabies vaccination and sterilization certificates must be submitted to complete the process. These measures are intended to ensure that pets are healthy, vaccinated on time, and properly cared for.

The rules also place restrictions on the number of dogs that can be kept in one household. Residences built on plots smaller than 200 square yards can keep a maximum of two dogs, while larger homes up to 300 square yards may register up to four dogs. By setting these limits, officials hope to prevent overcrowding and ensure pets are raised in safe, manageable environments.

To enforce compliance, the corporation has warned of penalties for owners who fail to register their pets. Fines may be imposed, and repeat violations could invite stricter action. The municipal body believes this system will not only encourage responsible pet ownership but also help build a detailed database of pets in the city. This information can assist with vaccination drives, monitoring health concerns, and addressing aggressive or repeated bite incidents.

The move has generated mixed responses. Many residents welcome the step as a way to address the growing number of dog bite cases, which have made headlines in recent months. At the same time, some pet owners have expressed concern about the additional costs and paperwork involved. Animal welfare advocates, however, point out that mandatory registration can ultimately benefit both pets and people by promoting awareness and ensuring timely vaccinations.

With its new bylaws, Ghaziabad joins a growing list of cities attempting to balance public safety with animal welfare. Civic officials plan to roll out awareness drives in housing societies, veterinary clinics, and neighborhood wards to make pet owners familiar with the process. If implemented smoothly, this initiative could serve as a model for other urban centers grappling with similar challenges.