Chennai, Aug 26 (IANS) – In the wake of a fatal pit bull attack on a 48-year-old man, the Tamil Nadu government has directed all dog breeders, pet shops, and sellers to register with the Tamil Nadu Animal Welfare Board (TNAWB) by September 30.
Boarding facilities involved in unlicensed breeding have also been ordered to comply. Officials warned that from October 1, legal action will be taken against violators.
The TNAWB, along with the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC), plans to carry out inspections in suspected breeding hubs to identify banned breeds such as pit bulls, rottweilers, and others. Currently, only a small number of establishments are registered.
“Those failing to register will face strict legal consequences,” said Shruthi Vinodh, TNAWB member. She added that penalty amounts are being finalised in consultation with the Municipal Administration and Water Supply Department. In the meantime, local bodies have been empowered to levy fines or file complaints.
Authorities estimate over 100 illegal breeding centres operate in Chennai, with pet dogs openly sold in weekend markets and online platforms. The illegal trade reportedly generates crores of rupees each month, with pit bull puppies priced between ₹25,000 and ₹1 lakh depending on breed purity.
Animal rights activists have urged stronger enforcement. Arun Prasanna, founder of People for Cattle in India, said: “Local bodies should collaborate with NGOs and police to crack down on illegal sales. There is no need to wait for new laws — existing provisions under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita allow immediate action.”
Officials confirmed that crackdowns will intensify post the September 30 deadline, targeting all unregistered breeders and pet shops.
