Panchkula, Sept. 7 -- In a bid to regulate pet ownership and curb dog-bite incidents in the city, the Panchkula municipal corporation (MC) has stepped up enforcement, making it mandatory for all residents to register their pet dogs. The civic body has also warned that strict action will be taken against those who fail to comply with the rules. According to MC officials, it has been observed that many residents are adopting stray dogs or keeping pet dogs at home without registering them. To ensure compliance, the corporation has roped in residents' welfare associations (RWAs) and issued letters, asking them to inform their members about the mandatory registration. The letter by the MC's chief sanitary inspector cites provisions under Section 311 of the Haryana Municipal Corporation (HMC) Act, 1994, and the Haryana Municipal Corporation (Registration and Proper Control of Dogs) Bye-Laws, 2008, which make it mandatory for all pet owners to register their dogs and obtain the necessary licence. Copies of this order have also been forwarded to area councillors for strict monitoring and implementation. In addition to registration, pet owners have been directed to follow the guidelines of the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI). These include keeping dogs on a leash while in public places, carrying poo bags to maintain cleanliness, and using a muzzle whenever necessary. "Non-compliance will attract legal action under the provisions of the HMC Act and the applicable bylaws," the letter warns. On average, 400 to 450 dog-bite cases are reported in Panchkula every month. An MC official said that several complaints were received regarding technical glitches in the Saral portal, the online platform for pet registration. "To facilitate pet owners, we have now shifted the process offline. Registration forms can be submitted directly at the MC office. The registration fee has been fixed at Rs.500 per dog," the officer added....