Dakshina Kannada DC Highlights Non-Compliance in Pet Shop Registration
In a significant move to enforce animal welfare standards, Dakshina Kannada Deputy Commissioner Darshan HV has expressed serious concern over pet shops operating without mandatory registration under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. The issue was discussed during a meeting of the Dakshina Kannada District Animal Welfare Association, chaired by the DC at his office, to review the implementation of the act.
Low Registration Rates Among Pet Shops
According to DC Darshan HV, there are 20 pet shops in the district, but only two have registered under the act. He stressed that all shops selling live animals and birds must obtain separate registration with the Animal Welfare Board as per legal requirements. The DC instructed the Mangaluru City Corporation and other local bodies to ensure that pet shops complete this registration before issuing trade licences, aiming to curb illegal operations and improve compliance.
Reports of Cruel Conditions in Pet Shops
Members of the Animal Welfare Association informed the DC about distressing conditions in some pet shops, where animals and birds are kept without basic facilities. They highlighted instances of cruelty, such as inadequate air and light, especially when shops remain locked at night, compromising the well-being of the animals. This underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement and monitoring to protect animal rights in the district.
Initiatives for Cattle Shelters and Veterinary Facilities
Beyond pet shops, the DC addressed broader animal welfare projects. He directed officials to demarcate and acquire 98.4 acres of land approved for a government cattle shelter at Kumaradhara, with instructions to remove any encroachments. For a proposed veterinary hospital at Bondantila in Mangaluru taluk, he ordered the construction of a boundary wall to prevent land encroachment. These steps aim to enhance infrastructure for animal care and management in the region.
Stray Dog Control and Funding for Cattle Shelters
DC Darshan HV also called on all urban local bodies to implement measures for controlling stray dogs, including sterilization programs. Dr. Arun Kumar Shetty, deputy director of the department of animal husbandry and veterinary services, reported that the government has released Rs 22 lakh for the maintenance of 11 private cattle shelters in the district, supporting ongoing efforts in animal welfare.
Update on Animal Crematorium Plan
In other developments, Mangaluru City Corporation officials informed the meeting that plans to build an animal crematorium at Nandigudda have been dropped due to public opposition. This decision reflects community feedback and adjustments in local animal welfare strategies.
