The Gautam Buddha Nagar district administration has made it mandatory for pet owners to muzzle their dogs while walking them. The decision came in the wake of recent dog-bite incidents in the city.

The district administration has also asked officials to identify places where people can feed dogs within the residential societies.

Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) should also assist in helping officials with identifying feeding points for dogs.

Officials have been directed to ensure timely sterilisation and vaccination of stray dogs.

Strict action will be taken against those who commit cruelty towards dogs.

Meanwhile, in neighbouring Ghaziabad, the municipal corporation hiked the registration fee for pet dogs from Rs 500 to Rs 1000, effective from April 1, and the decision has drawn flak from all over the animal rights community.

Animal lovers also opposed the existing fee of Rs 500 as many people, especially those who live in downtrodden areas, have many stray dogs as their pets. The registration has to be renewed every year.

The municipal corporation has also imposed a fine of Rs 5,000 on the pet owners if they fail to register.

Source: India Today