Pet Shops in Guwahati Under Fire for Neglecting Animal Welfare
Pet shops in Guwahati have come under scrutiny for their treatment of animals, with many failing to adhere to basic guidelines for keeping and breeding pets. The lack of regulation has led to overcrowding, poor healthcare, and abuse, sparking concerns over animal welfare and ethical practices. Despite the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 outlining key guidelines for pet shop owners, many continue to operate without proper licenses or documentation, prioritizing profits over animal well-being.
Animal rights activists and concerned citizens have reported numerous cases of neglect, where pets are kept in cramped cages with inadequate food, water, and medical care. Unregulated breeding practices also lead to health complications and genetic disorders, as shop owners prioritize profits over animal health. “The lack of strict monitoring has allowed pet shops to function without accountability,” said Abhay, a local animal activist. “Many of these establishments neither follow basic hygiene norms nor ensure veterinary care for the animals they sell.”
Residents are urging the authorities to implement strict regulations for pet shops, ensuring animal welfare laws are enforced. Mandatory licensing, regular inspections, and guidelines for ethical breeding and pet care must be introduced to prevent cruelty and improve the living conditions of pets. “We file cases against such shops or breeders who do not follow the norms and ethics, but they tend to get away,” said Abhay.
Local animal welfare organizations are advocating for increased awareness among pet owners, encouraging them to adopt from shelters instead of purchasing from unregulated pet shops. The organizations are also pushing for the implementation of measures to protect against illegal wildlife trade, as some shops allegedly sell exotic birds and reptiles without necessary permits.
The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 outlines clear guidelines for pet shop owners, including ensuring proper housing, water, and hygiene, providing healthy animals for sale, and maintaining records of vaccinations, sales, and animal adoptions. However, these regulations are often disregarded, resulting in poor treatment of animals and disregard for their welfare.
As a result, residents are calling for change, urging the authorities to take action and ensure pet shops operate within the bounds of animal welfare laws. By implementing strict regulations, regular inspections, and guidelines for ethical breeding and pet care, the living conditions of pets can be improved, and animal welfare protected.
Original Source: https://www.guwahatiplus.com/guwahati/lack-of-regulations-in-guwahatis-pet-shops-raises-concerns-over-animal-welfare
Category : Guwahati
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-03-21 18:53:00
