A Complete Guide to Pet Registration in India: Why and How to Register Your Pet

Pet registration is a common practice worldwide, even being a mandatory requirement for pet ownership in some countries; Pet licensing and pet registration are important aspects of pet ownership, as these processes help the local government or municipality gauge the local pet population and plan changes to policy & infrastructure accordingly. 

India has recently begun pet registration and licensing processes too. As it is not a centralized exercise, the process varies from state to state, this helps each state tailor the requirements to their demographic, but it may lead to some confusion for pet parents. 

Since the registration laws are enforced in some states and not in others, many pet parents look at pet registration with apprehension, viewing it as unnecessary and cumbersome. However, pet registration & licensing has several perks for pets, pet parents, and their communities. Here’s a breakdown of the pet registration process in India. 

What is Pet Licensing? 

Pet licensing is the process of registering your pet with your local Municipal Corporation. This process establishes legal ownership of your pet, which makes it easier to avoid ownership conflicts if they arise.  Registration is also used to measure the pet population in an area and differentiate between pet animals and stray/wild animals. 

Why Does my Pet Need to be Registered? 

There are plenty of reasons to register your pet. For one, numerous states have made pet registration a mandatory requirement for pet ownership, meaning it is a legal requirement. Another reason to register is planning and logistics; for example, if a Municipal Corporation is planning to construct a government-backet veterinary clinic, it first needs to count the number of animals under their jurisdiction to make sure the planned facility can handle the population without overflowing.  

What is the Process of Pet Registration? 

Since pet registration is conducted by your local municipality, the process varies from state to state. There are a set of general requirements that all states have though. 

Here’s how you can register your pet: 

Step 1: Locate your local municipal office.

A quick internet search or phone call to the local municipality will clarify where you need to go to register your pet. Some places like Delhi or Ahmedabad have online portals for registration, while other states may require you to visit in person to register your pet. Places like Chandigarh even have a dedicated app for pet registration, so check what the process looks like for you in your state first. 

Step 2: Carry and provide details of your pet 

You will need a few documents to register your pet; vaccination records, sterilization certificates, rabies vaccination certificate, and health certificates all may be required. You will also require a proof of ID (voter ID, Aadhar card, etc), a proof of residence, and a few photos of you and your dog. 

Step 3: Fill and submit the application form 

The application form is relatively simple. You will need to fill in the relevant details for you and your pet. This form may also include an undertaking that you will adhere to the by-laws of the municipality. 

Step 4: Provide your details 

Submit the proof of ID and proof of residence (Aadhar card, voted ID, driver’s license, rental agreement). 

Step 5: Pay the registration fee 

An annual payment is required to register and re-register your pet. The registration and licensing fee can be anywhere from INR 50 to INR 500 depending on your state, city, and municipality. Once you make the payment, the process is complete, and you should receive a confirmation of the same. Some municipalities provide metal badges or collar tags as a proof that you have registered your pet. 

Regions Where you Must Register Your Pet 

Pet registration is not mandatory in every state across India. However, it is becoming more and more common due to the benefits it provides. Here are a few locations where pet registration is mandatory: 

• Agra 
• Ludhiana 
• Ghaziabad 
• Chennai 
• Delhi 
• Gurugram 
• Noida 
• Srinagar 
• Ahmedabad 
• Uttar Pradesh 
• Uttarakhand
• Mumbai 
• Pune 

While it may seem daunting, registering your pet is an important part of pet ownership. Registration and licensing help establish ownership, keep a census, and plan future policy, not to mention help you comply with the law in places where you must register your pet as a legal requirement. If you have the documentation and get your pet registered in a timely manner, you should have no trouble in the future.