Chandigarh, February 21, 2025 – In a major step towards preventing animal cruelty, the Punjab government has made it mandatory for all dog breeders and pet shops to register under the Pashu Bhalai Board Punjab.
The decision was announced during a board meeting chaired by Animal Husbandry Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian at the Livestock Complex in SAS Nagar (Mohali).
Ensuring Humane Treatment of Animals
Khudian stated that all breeders and pet shops must comply with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Dog Breeding and Marketing) Rules, 2016. The aim is to eliminate unethical breeding practices, regulate pet sales, and ensure animal welfare.
The Board will monitor breeders and pet shop owners to make sure:
Khudian also directed officials to educate pet shop owners and breeders about animal welfare laws and ensure the strict implementation of transportation and load limit rules for animals.
- Animals are not kept in inhumane conditions
- Proper healthcare and nutrition are provided
- Overbreeding is prevented
- Ethical pet sales are encouraged
Spreading Awareness
The Minister urged the Board to launch awareness campaigns in schools and colleges to educate students about animal rights and cruelty prevention.
Key officials, including Principal Secretary Rahul Bhandari, Director Dr. Gursharanjit Singh Bedi, and other Board members, attended the meeting.
This move signals Punjab’s strong commitment to animal welfare, ensuring that breeders and pet shop owners adhere to ethical and humane practices.
