MUMBAI: In a welcome move for dogs across the country, the ministry of environment, forest & climate change (MoEFCC) has published draft rules to regulate dog breeding Humane Society International/India and People for Animals have played a significant role in drafting the rules and approaching the judiciary seeking directions for the establishment of the draft rules.The draft rules known as the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Dog Breeding and Marketing Rules, 2017) prohibit breeding, owning or housing (for breeding) of dogs and pups without registration . The rules also prescribe requirements to be met by registered breeders for breeding and housing of dogs. In addition, the government has laid down conditions for medical care, age, pet shop licences, record keeping and sterilization for sale of these dogs.Tens of thousands of dogs are illegally bred in deplorable conditions without proper medical care. Most often than not, unweaned puppies less than 2 months of age are sold to unassuming customers without any registration or records. Whelping mothers are impregnated continuously that impacts their own health and the well-being of the puppies born.Gauri Maulekhi, trustee at PFA and government liaison for HSI/India said, “We are delighted with this new draft notification that will end the irregular practice of this infamous industry. We commend the ministry for their vision and their efforts to protect man’s best friend from being exploited and being used as reproductive machines in the breeding industry. We hope that the Centre will implement this as soon as possible.”