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Punjab makes registration mandatory for pet shops, dog breeders
Babushahi Bureau
SAS Nagar (Punjab), April 8, 2025: In a significant step to promote animal welfare and regulate the pet trade, the Punjab Government has made it mandatory for all pet shops and dog breeders engaged in the sale, purchase, and breeding of pets and birds to register with the Punjab Animal Welfare Board.
The announcement was made by Dr. S.K. Gupta, Deputy Director, Animal Husbandry, SAS Nagar, who stated that the directive is by the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, Dog Breeding and Marketing Rules, 2017, and The Pet Shop Rules, 2018.
These rules also cover the online sale of pets and birds, aiming to curb unethical breeding practices and ensure better living conditions for animals.
To streamline the registration process, five-member inspection teams have been formed at the district and tehsil levels, comprising officials from the Veterinary Department, Police, Forest and Wildlife Department, Local Government, and SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals).
Dr. Gupta urged all pet shop owners and breeders in SAS Nagar to register without delay.
He further advised the public to verify the registration status of breeders and shops before making any purchases.Non-compliance with the mandate may attract penalties of up to ₹50,000 and/or imprisonment up to three months. For assistance, individuals can contact their nearest Government Civil Veterinary Hospital.
The move is aimed at protecting the rights and welfare of animals and bringing much-needed transparency and regulation to the pet trade industry.