Chennai Corporation officials have revealed that only 11,300 people in the city currently hold licenses for dog breeding. To identify breeders operating without licenses, a survey will be conducted soon.According to the 2024 census, Chennai has around 1.8 lakh stray dogs. To control their population, the Corporation has set up sterilization centers at Kannammapet, Pulianthope, Lloyd’s Garden, Meenambakkam, and Sholinganallur. So far, over 10,000 dogs have been sterilized and 9,800 vaccinated against rabies.
The move comes after a recent incident in which a man died following a stray dog bite. Corporation Veterinary Officer J. Kamal Hussain said that sterilization surgeries and rabies vaccinations are being carried out with public safety in mind. Privately bred dogs are also being monitored, and legal action will be taken against violators.
The Corporation has issued strict guidelines for dog breeders and owners:
Only licensed, rabies-vaccinated dogs are allowed outdoors.
Dogs must be leashed, chained, and muzzled in public.
Owners releasing aggressive or unlicensed dogs that pose a danger will face criminal action under Animal Welfare Board of India guidelines.
Authorities urged citizens to cooperate in ensuring the safety of both the public and animals in the city.