In a significant step towards improving animal welfare, the Delhi Animal Welfare Board (DAWB) has issued a public notice mandating the registration of all pet shops and dog breeding centres in the National Capital Territory. Establishments have been given one month to comply or face closure, as per the Dog Breeding and Marketing Rules, 2017, and the Pet Shop Rules, 2018, under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
Dr. Asher Jesudoss, Member of the Executive Committee of the Board, emphasized the importance of this mandate, stating, “It is illegal for any pet shop or breeding centre to operate without registration. Our inspections have uncovered numerous violations, including inadequate safety measures, poor hygiene, and inhumane living conditions for animals.”
The initiative follows a Delhi High Court directive to ensure compliance with existing laws and promote accountability among pet establishments. The Board has launched an online registration process via the e-district portal to facilitate easy compliance.
To maximize outreach, the department has launched awareness campaigns through newspapers and plans to expand to radio and FM channels to ensure establishment owners are well-informed. Dr. Jesudoss warned that failure to register within the stipulated time will result in the closure and sealing of non-compliant establishments.
Animal welfare activists and organizations have lauded the registration mandate as a crucial step in tackling unethical breeding practices and improving living conditions for animals.
Kartick Satyanarayan, Co-founder of Wildlife SOS and executive member of Friendicoes, praised the initiative, stating, “This will help eradicate cruelty, curb illegal trafficking of exotic pets, and promote ethical pet ownership. Unethical breeding often results in puppies with birth defects and compromised health, burdening pet owners and leading to increased abandonment.”
Animal activist Ridhima Saraswat further stressed the need for strict enforcement, pointing out that many establishments operate with poor hygiene, inadequate safety measures, and untrained staff. “Different breeds are often housed together in stressful environments, and the lack of proper fire safety equipment is a major concern. This enforcement is critical to ensuring the well-being of animals,” she said.
This regulatory step marks a significant move towards creating a more compassionate and responsible pet care industry in Delhi. Pet shop and breeding centre owners are urged to take immediate action and register their businesses to avoid legal action.
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