Government announces intent to notify new rules to regulate pet shops

New Delhi, December 18, 2016: The Centre will soon notify the rules for pet shops, which will regulate, among other practices, the capture, housing, breeding and transportation of animals sold in the pet trade. Humane Society International/India and People for Animals have played a significant role in drafting the rules and approaching the judiciary seeking directions for establishment of the Draft Rules.

Many animals in the pet trade don’t survive the trauma of being transported in small cages, often without adequate water, food or any other form of relief. De-beaking, tail-docking, feather plucking, nail clipping, de-clawing and other cruel practices are rampant in pet shops. Pet stores often sell un-weaned pups, and house animals in deplorable conditions with no veterinary attention for fatal illnesses or even for the general wellbeing of these animals. In-breeding, lack of proper nutrition and lack of opportunity to express normal behaviour are also common. Additionally, pet shops grossly violate the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 as many exotic and native wild animals are openly sold in pet shops.

Gauri Maulekhi, trustee at PFA and government liaison for HSI/India said, “We commend the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change for their foresighted policy that will prevent tens of thousands of animals from abuse in the pet shop industry. We urge the Centre to notify these rules soon and duly implement them to ensure that animals are not subjected to cruel treatment at the hands of illegal pet shop owners.”

The Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change made the announcement at a press conference held in New Delhi today.

Corporate Comm India(CCI Newswire)