UP Govt issues new guidelines for stray dog management: Details

In a step to address rising stray dog attacks and reduce human-animal conflict, the Uttar Pradesh government has issued comprehensive guidelines following a court directive. Municipal bodies must establish sufficient designated feeding zones for stray dogs in every ward. These feeding spots are required to be located away from children’s play areas, senior citizen zones, high-traffic areas, and entry-exit points. Feeding of stray dogs will only be permitted at specific times and within these designated zones. Feeding outside these locations is strictly prohibited.

Authorities have instructed the installation of information boards near all designated feeding zones, clearly marking their locations and feeding timings. This aims to ensure public awareness and compliance.

All dogs at designated feeding spots must be sterilised and vaccinated against rabies in accordance with the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Rules, 2023. The state-level monitoring cell, led by the Additional Director (Animal Welfare), will track progress and require monthly reports.

Resident Welfare Associations, Apartment Owners’ Associations, and local bodies will mutually decide feeding locations. Any disputes will be resolved by a committee comprising veterinary, police, animal welfare, and civic officials.

Relocation of stray dogs is strictly forbidden. Instead, municipal authorities are directed to build permanent enclosures to isolate aggressive or rabid dogs. These animals will be kept under observation, with healthy ones sterilised, vaccinated, and released back into the area. Most importantly, the order mandates that adopted stray dogs cannot be abandoned under any circumstances.

Any misbehaviour towards enforcement officers, especially female animal protectors ensuring compliance with the guidelines, will be treated as a serious offence and attract strict legal action.