New guidelines issued for pet owners & stray animal care in Mumbai | Details

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has rolled out new guidelines for pet owners, animal feeders, and housing societies. These aim to ensure responsible pet ownership and the humane treatment of stray animals across Mumbai. Under Section 191B of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act, pet registration is now compulsory, and keeping unlicensed dogs is illegal. The move aims to reduce conflicts between residents and animal caregivers while promoting responsible and humane practices.

• For Pet Owners: Registration of all pet dogs is now mandatory under Section 191B of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act, 1888. Dogs must be leashed in public, and owners must clean up after them. Children under 18 cannot walk dogs alone.

• For Housing Societies: Banning pets or restricting their movement in lifts/common areas is illegal. Societies can set designated feeding spots and times for strays, but cannot prohibit feeding.

• For Animal Feeders: Feeding strays is legal but must be done hygienically in low-traffic areas during early mornings or late evenings. Feeders should assist in sterilisation and vaccination efforts.

• For Institutions: Schools and offices must not relocate strays but ensure their vaccination, sterilisation, and care.

The BMC warned that harassing feeders or being cruel to animals is punishable. Citizens can register pets or report issues via the BMC’s helpline (9635839888) or website (vhd.mcgm.gov.in).