India has a rich history of revering animals, and today, many people keep them as pets. However, pet ownership comes with legal responsibilities. Indian laws provide specific guidelines on which animals can be kept as pets and how they should be treated.

Which Animals Can Be Kept as Pets?

Indian laws regulate pet ownership to ensure animal welfare and biodiversity protection. Commonly allowed pets include:
🐶 Mammals – Dogs, cats, horses, cattle, goats, etc.
🐦 Birds – Parrots, pigeons, ducks, and geese.
🐠 Fish – Goldfish, koi, guppies, and Oscars.

However, keeping wild or endangered species as pets is strictly prohibited under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 to protect biodiversity.

Animal Rights Under the Indian Penal Code (IPC)

Despite rising cases of animal cruelty, Indian laws provide protections, including:

• Section 428 & 429 – Punishes those who harm or kill animals with imprisonment or fines.
• Section 378 – Recognizes theft of pets as a punishable offense.
• Section 503 – Criminalizes threats against a person’s pet.

Taking Action Against Animal Cruelty

If you witness animal cruelty, you can:
✔️ File a complaint with the police or an animal welfare organization.
✔️ Report a Wildlife Offense under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
✔️ Take legal action by sending a legal notice.

India has strong legal protections for pets, but enforcement requires awareness and active participation. Understanding these laws helps ensure the safety and well-being of our beloved animal companions. Stay informed and advocate for animal rights!