Here are a few commonly asked questions on breeding that could be relevant.
1. Is breeding of dogs regulated in India?
Yes, the same is regulated by the PCA (Dog Breeding and Marketing Rules), 2017, that has been specifically notified by the ministry. https://www.cjmemorialtrust.org/post/the-dog-breeding-and-marketing-rules-2017
2. Do cats come under the regulations?
No. However, if the breeding conditions are poor and there is cruelty, you may file a complaint before the police station under Section 11 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
3. What are the legal licenses and registrations that a dog breeder needs to have?
Registration Certificate by the State Animal Welfare Board (SAWB); BBMP trade license. KCI (Kennel Club of India) Registration is not considered a legally valid license.
4. What can I do when I see a breeder in my locality that is treating animals cruelly?
Most breeders are unregistered and use their backyard to breed dogs. However, in such cases, it would be advisable to reach out to animal cruelty officers/ police station inspectors or hoysala/ state animal welfare board member secretary to file a complaint of illegal breeding. However, if an animal is under imminent threat of death, it would be advisable to file a complaint before the police station under Section 11 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 and proceed with confiscation of the dog with the assistance of the police.
5. How to register yourself as a breeder?
Approach the SAWB and fill out the application form; and upon payment of fee, an inspection would take place and upon fulfilment of all the conditions under the Rules, the registration certificate would be issued, renewable every year.
6. Should pet shops be registered as well?
Yes, pet shops have a separate registration procedure under the PCA (Pet shop) Rules, 2018.
7. When you buy a dog from a breeder, what is the documentation I need to be asking for?
Registration Certificate by the State Animal Welfare Board (SAWB)
8. Can I breed dogs in my house, and sell them to my known friends?
No, the same needs a Registration Certificate by the State Animal Welfare Board (SAWB). The aspect of non-commercial breeding is also pending before court and hence, until it is decided, home breeding (commercial or otherwise), requires a registration.
9. What is the punishment for breeding without permission?
Usually a notice would be sent to the breeder to register within a particular time frame, after complying with all the infrastructural and documentary standards. Else, the dogs would be confiscated.
10. Duties of veterinarians ?
To promote neutering of dogs whenever possible. To avoid forming a nexus with breeders and pet shops that are unregistered. To avoid bringing pet owners together for the purpose of breeding.
Additional Questions:
Is breeding illegal or banned? Neither, it is regulated.
I paid in cash and the breeder did not give me any papers , receipt or certificate. You have funded an illegal transaction.
Can I buy dogs online ? Not unless the online website has displayed the KAWB registration certificate.
My breeder said he is verified and showed me a KCI certificate. KCI certificates are not valid licenses.
Is there GST a on dog sale ? No, sale of dogs are not yet classified as goods for the purposes of GST.
My vet asked me to if wanted to mate my dog. I’m confused . It is advised to proceed with neutering as it is the mandate of the law.
I want to buy a dog, where should I go ? I don’t want to break any rules. To a registered breeder.
I want to return my dog to the breeder. What is the system? This would not be possible if you have purchased the dog from an illegal breeder.
Should I visit the breeder before buying? Yes.
(compiled courtesy AW legal expert Alwyn Sebastian)
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