Citizens may soon have to get a licence for their pooches from the BBMP. The civic body is considering making such a licence mandatory. The rationale behind the decision is to keep tabs on the dog population in the city, say BBMP officials.
The city has a stray dog population of around four lakh. Though not yet mandatory, the civic body has issued 584 licences.
The proposed move has puzzled several pet owners in the city. “Pet dogs are under proper care by the owners, some of whom consider them as another family member. What is the purpose of a licence for them?” asks Pooja Madaiah, who dotes on her cocker spaniel Hugo.
Yathiraj S., Dean of Veterinary College, welcomed the move saying the mandatory licence for pets will go a long way in preventing rabies, as vaccinations will become compulsory. It also brings in a certain responsibility on the dog owner. “In the interest of public health, a licence should be made mandatory,” he said.
