Chennai, 19 December (H.S.): The Greater Chennai Corporation has announced that applications for new pet licenses for Pit Bull and Rottweiler breeds will be prohibited within city limits starting from December 20. This ban, initiated by the corporation's veterinary department, aims to stop the issuance of new licenses and the renewal of annual licenses for these two breeds.

The decision follows the classification of these dogs as aggressive breeds that pose a significant risk to public safety. Authorities noted that the move is intended to prevent fresh ownership of these specific breeds across the city to curb the rising number of dog attack complaints.

According to statements from the corporation authorities, while existing licensed dogs will not be seized, their owners must follow strict safety protocols. Owners of Pit Bulls and Rottweilers who already hold valid licenses are now required to use both a leash and a muzzle whenever the animals are taken out in public.

Failure to comply with these safety measures will result in a fine of 5,000 rupees. Furthermore, the civic body has proposed a heavy penalty of one lakh rupees for any individual found purchasing or rearing these breeds without a license after the set deadline.

Official reports characterize these breeds as ferocious and unpredictable, particularly when they encounter unfamiliar people or environments. The corporation emphasized that although these dogs might behave normally with their owners, they have been linked to numerous incidents involving harm to the public in shared residential areas.

By implementing these stricter controls and steep penalties, the council aims to address breed specific safety concerns and protect residents from potential attacks. This regulation marks a significant shift in pet ownership policies for the residents of Chennai.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary