Mandatory dog licences for foreign and mixed-breed pets in Howrah

Kolkata: Howrah has taken an important step to increase pet safety and public responsibility by making dog licences mandatory for foreign and mixed-breed pets. This rule, set to start in September 2025, aims to ensure that every non-native and mixed-breed dog in the city is registered and traceable. The new system promises to help authorities control illegal pet trade, encourage responsible ownership, and keep better track of the canine population.

To get a dog licence in Howrah, pet owners must submit an application with their Aadhaar card and the dog’s vaccination certificate. Ensuring the pet has an up-to-date anti-rabies vaccine is a key requirement. This process has been designed to be simple and accessible, so everyone can follow the rules without difficulty. The annual fee for the dog licence has been set at Rs150, which is considered affordable for most pet owners. The licence must be renewed every year to keep the registration valid.

This move by the Howrah Municipal Corporation chiefly targets foreign breeds, such as Labradors, German Shepherds, and Huskies, alongside mixed-breed dogs. Local Indian breeds are reportedly not required to follow this new licensing rule at present. The main motive behind this distinction is to manage rising numbers of foreign and mixed-breed pets and to prevent illegal commercial breeding or trade of exotic dogs.

Many residents have welcomed this initiative because it will help lost dogs reunite with their owners quickly. It also puts an official system in place, so pet owners remain accountable for their dog's vaccinations and behaviour. Officials believe tracking pets more effectively will improve sanitation, control stray populations, and reduce health risks in communities.

Those applying for the licence are required to keep records up to date, especially vaccination details and proof of identity. If an owner is found without a valid licence for a foreign or mixed-breed dog after September, they may face fines or penalties as per the new municipal guidelines. The civic body will link pet licences to owner addresses, making it easier to follow up on complaints or emergencies.

This initiative is part of a larger effort by Howrah to keep pace with growing pet ownership and to curb irresponsible practices. The authorities hope that other urban areas will soon adopt similar measures, leading to better oversight and care for pets across West Bengal.

By registering your foreign or mixed-breed dog in Howrah and adhering to the new rules, you are helping build a community where pets are safe, healthy, and welcome. The annual renewal ensures your pet’s details remain current, which is vital in case they ever go missing or need help. Keeping up with licensing and vaccination is not just a legal requirement, it’s a way to show you care for your pet’s well-being.

Howrah’s step towards mandatory dog licences is a win-win for pet lovers and civic authorities alike. With a minimal fee and straightforward process, it promises to make pet ownership more accountable and enjoyable for everyone.