Thiruvananthapuram, 14 Oct (H.S.): The Keralam government is preparing new regulations governing the care, breeding and abandonment of pet dogs, including a proposal to restrict each household to a maximum of three dogs, Local Self-Government Minister K.M. Shaji said.

The proposed framework will make registration compulsory for pet dogs and introduce penalties for violations. The new provisions are expected to come into force soon, the minister said.

Shaji said the proposed ceiling of three dogs per household was intended to curb uncontrolled breeding and encourage responsible pet ownership. The government is also considering action against those who breed dogs illegally or exceed the prescribed limit on the number of pets kept at home.

According to the minister, Kerala’s pet dog population is estimated to be more than twice its stray dog population. However, the absence of a comprehensive registration system has prevented authorities from establishing an accurate count.

“Mandatory registration will help collect reliable data and strengthen regulation,” he said, explaining the rationale behind the proposed measures.

Under the new provisions, keeping pet dogs without registration would become an offence, Shaji said. Registration would provide authorities with a clearer picture of the number of dogs maintained in households across the state and help improve oversight of pet ownership.

The proposed regulations also provide for a fine of Rs 10,000 for abandoning pets. The measure forms part of the government’s effort to make owners more accountable for the animals in their care.

Shaji stressed that people keeping pets must shoulder greater responsibility for their welfare and ensure that ownership does not lead to unchecked breeding or abandonment.

The government’s proposed framework brings registration, household limits and penalties for abandonment into a common regulatory approach. While the three-dog ceiling is under consideration, the minister said stricter provisions governing pet ownership would be introduced shortly across Kerala.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman