Pets are quite like family members. However, with growing apartment complexes, it can be a mixed blessing. On one hand, there are the non-pet-owners who constantly complain and disapprove of activities related to pets, and on the other, there are the pet owners who strive to ensure that their rights are intact.
What does the law have to say on this?
The Animal Welfare Board of India has a list of byelaws for pets where it mentions that apartment complexes and their management committees have no right to make laws for pets, nor can they mandate that pet owners must keep their pets leashed. They cannot impose penalties in relation to pets.
To know more about Pet Circular - Animal Welfare Board of India click the link below:
The Indian Constitution allows and encourages pets in apartments. Section 11(3) speaks about the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Article 51 A (g) states that it is every citizen’s duty to show compassion towards animals and the environment.
Some important facts that pet owners must know are:
No one has the right to veto owning pets in an apartment complex.Pet owners cannot be denied the right to use elevators with their pets.Pets cannot be banned from parks.Pet owners cannot be asked to vacate their apartments.If there are notices put up forcing people to get rid of their pets, it is illegal. According to Section 11 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, this is a punishable offense
That being said, living in a community does come with its responsibilities and by following the appropriate etiquette and being considerate of others, pet owners can live harmoniously with those who don’t.
Guidelines for Pet owners
Take responsibility for your pet
Make sure your pet gets adequate exercise and is fed properly
Make sure that vaccinations are up to date
Train your pet. Ensure that the pet does not cause an inconvenience as in incessant barking, messing up common areas or being aggressive
Take precautions about not allowing pets to roam free in common areas both for the pet’s safety as well as apartment residents and visitors
Pet owners shall ensure that their pets do not get into a fight with other pets
The dog owner must make sure that their pet is not causing any nuisance in the neighbourhood.
Residents keeping domestic animals or other pets shall abide by the Municipal Sanitary Bye-Laws or Regulations.
Ensure that certain strict rules and regulations are followed so that no one is inconvenienced or affected.
Even on walks within the premises or in any other common area, the animal has to be on a leash and accompanied by the owner at all times
It makes sense to go through the rules of residential complexes before renting a flat.
In an apartment block, you have scores of people walking in and out, from maids to milkman to children. It is essential to train the dogs so that they don’t get provoked on seeing neighbours and workers.
It needs to be toilet trained and taught some amount of discipline.While taking the dog common areas for walk clean up the poop of the dog without fail. Better to take an used Newspaper or Dog Poop scooper to clean the poop.
Dog Poop scooper
Ensure that your pet does not fight with others pets.
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