The East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner has issued an order that all pet owners are to ensure that they keep their pets enclosed within their residential premises including during night hours so as to create a safe environment for passersby and pedestrians.
The Deputy Commissioner, who is also the Chairperson of the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), said that all dog owners are also required to compulsorily register their animals with the Shillong Municipal Board.
The order was in response to complaints from residents of different localities in and around Shillong that pet dogs are creating nuisance to passersby.
Informing that the SPCA under with the District A.H. & Veterinary Officer has carried out sterilization of street dogs in January and December in collaboration with Shillong Veterinary Hospital and NGOs like HUFAN, PAWs and Happy Tails the order said that such exercise will be taken up from time to time to reduce the stray dog population in the city through humane means.
“A long-term plan for addressing the menace of street dogs including setting up of animal shelters and adoption centres in collaboration with the NGOs is being actively considered by the SPCA,” the Deputy Commissioner said.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Commissioner has asked the pubic that if they have any complaint with regards to stray dogs/ dangerous dogs they can call the helpline number of Shillong Municipal Board at 87875-86387 for necessary action.
