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Kohima, October 6 (MExN): The Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) will commence operations of its Dog Pound from October 20, directing all dog and pet owners to keep their animals confined within their compounds at all times, an official notice said on Wednesday.
The notice, issued by KMC Chief Executive Officer Alemyapang Longchar, stated that the decision was taken in pursuance of Section 61 (k) and 119 (1) of the Nagaland Municipal Act, 2023, and in consultation with all major stakeholders under Kohima Municipality.
“All dog/pet owners are required to keep confined their dogs/pets in their compound at all times. However, if a dog is to be taken outside the compound, the same has to be taken out on a leash,” the notice said.
Any dog found on the streets within the municipality without a leash, along with its owner or caretaker, shall be impounded without further notice and taken to the KMC Dog Shelter, it cautioned.
Impoundment, Claim and Disposal
The concerned owner may claim an impounded dog from the Dog Shelter at the KMC MRF Plant, Lerie, on production of identity papers. Impounded dogs can be claimed between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM on any working day.
The maximum period for which a dog will be kept in the KMC shelter is seven days, including the date of impoundment. Thereafter, the dog shall be disposed of by either finding a new owner or handing it over to animal care clubs or organisations, or as deemed fit.
“An owner cannot lay claim to his or her dog after the expiry of the maximum holding period,” it stated.
Penalties and Charges
The following charges shall apply for any dog impounded: a penalty of Rs 2,000 for the first impoundment, Rs 2,500 for the second, and Rs 3,000 for the third. From the fourth impoundment of a pet belonging to the same owner, an additional Rs 1,000 will be charged over and above the third impoundment penalty.
Feeding charges per day are fixed at Rs 200. Immunisation charges for dogs whose immunisation certificate is not produced will be applicable as per norms. Cleaning and grooming charges are Rs 100, while surgical or other medical examination and treatment fees will be charged as per actuals.
Owner liable in dog bite cases
In the event of any unfortunate dog bite incident, the dog owner will be held responsible for compensation if the dog is found unleashed outside his or her compound, the notice said.
For any queries regarding the dog pound, Veterinary Assistants Kekhrie Nakhro (7005796388) and Vetsoto Resuh (8131836713) may be contacted.
“This was stated in an official notice issued here today by KMC Chief Executive Officer Alemyapang Longchar,” the notice added.
