A ban has been imposed by the Indian government to stop importation of dogs for commercial purposes, including breeding.
The Director General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) made this move after strong demand from environmental organisations and animal rights groups, according to the International Business Times.
Dogs used for research, security purposes or owners bringing their own pets from the outside will still be allowed into the country, as long as suitable documents are carried.
There have been calls from animal rights groups after breeds such as St.Bernards, Siberian huskies and Alaskan malamutes have continued to be brought into the country despite the problems the tropical climate can cause for them.
Gauri Maulekhi, Human Society International India representative and PFA Trustee said, “We commend the Director General of Foreign Trade for this historic ban that will prevent the suffering of thousands of dogs.
“Our shelters are inundated with cases of abandoned imported breed dogs who are usually left out because the owners do not have a fair understanding of the breed’s requirements. We now hope that the government complements this decision by enacting the pet shop and breeder regulations as recommended by the law commission of India, so that people only get their pets from shelters and responsible breeders.”
