The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is encountering resistance from veterinary doctors as it attempts to register pet clinics and veterinary hospitals operating in the city. The civic body’s initiative aims to create a comprehensive policy for registering and monitoring such facilities, but veterinarians have been hesitant to share their details, prompting reminder letters from the PMC.
The monitoring committee of PMC, responsible for overseeing the stray dog sterilization and immunization program, decided in October of the previous year to launch the registration process for pet clinics and veterinary hospitals. Despite issuing letters to veterinary doctors and clinics, only 17 have shared their details with the PMC over the past four months. As a result, the civic body sent a reminder letter on Monday, March 4, urging more cooperation.
Dr. Bhagwan Pawar, the health officer of PMC, highlighted the significant increase in the number of pet clinics and hospitals in the city without any official records. The lack of information hampers the PMC’s ability to identify veterinary practitioners without proper qualifications or those operating as unlicensed practitioners. Dr. Pawar emphasized that once comprehensive information is gathered, PMC plans to formulate a new policy for the registration of pet clinics.
Dr. Sarika Funde, the chief veterinary officer at PMC, expressed concern over the poor response from private pet clinics, hospitals, and veterinarians. She emphasized the necessity for collaboration to ensure the safety and standardization of veterinary services. The current estimate suggests that there are over 150 pet clinics and hospitals within PMC limits.
“Currently, the PMC has limited power and control over such clinics. Once the registration is completed, the civic body will gain control over them,” added Dr. Funde.
The reluctance of veterinary clinics raises questions about the accountability and regulation of pet healthcare facilities. The PMC continues its efforts to encourage veterinary doctors and clinics to participate in the registration process for the greater benefit of the community and the welfare of animals.
