The ban on import of dogs for breeding or any other commercial activity was hailed by animal rights bodies and activists on Wednesday. They hoped that the Government will complement the decision by implementing rules to regulate pet shops and breeders.
Humane Society International India and People for Animals claimed that the lack of ban was earlier resulting in overpopulation of street dogs in India and had led to breed dogs suffering due to difference in climatic condition.
“We commend DGFT for this historic ban which will prevent the suffering of thousands of dogs. Our shelters are inundated with cases of abandoned imported breed dogs which are usually due to poor understanding of the breed’s requirement”, they said.
According to them, a large number of dogs that are not suitable for the country’s tropical climate such as St Bernards, Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes were being imported by breeders in India.