The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has passed a significant resolution allowing the implantation of microchips in dogs and cattle to regulate pet ownership and improve stray animal management. This decision was made during a corporation council meeting held at Ripon Building, chaired by Mayor R Priya.During the meeting, a total of 112 resolutions were passed, with one of the key measures being the implementation of a microchip tracking system for animals. As part of this initiative, pet dogs will be microchipped to help regulate their ownership, while cattle housed in modern enclosures established by the Corporation will also receive microchips. Additionally, the Corporation plans to develop a dedicated software system to track registered animals efficiently.
The microchip will contain important identification details, including the animal’s name, breed, color, gender, and age, along with its vaccination history. It will also have a unique identification number assigned by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). This system will enable pet owners to locate their animals easily, preventing the loss of pets and ensuring better stray animal management.
According to a Chennai Corporation veterinary official, the microchipping initiative has been introduced in six veterinary hospitals across Chennai as part of its first phase. The project will gradually be expanded across Tamil Nadu, covering government veterinary hospitals, veterinary universities, and private clinics.
A recent 2024 survey revealed that Chennai has an estimated 1.8 lakh stray dogs. Authorities believe that microchipping and proper identification will play a crucial role in monitoring and controlling the city’s stray animal population.
By adopting this system, Chennai Corporation aims to modernize animal welfare and regulation, bringing the city’s pet and stray animal management practices in line with international standards.