It is learnt that the Mapusa Municipal Council has reportedly announced the introduction of a new tax on dog owners. As part of the new regulation, a one-time registration fee of Rs 500 will be charged for each dog, with an annual renewal fee of Rs 100. Registering a pet dog with the civic body is a good step but why should the dog owner be made to pay such a hefty dog tax? The dog owners could have been charged a nominal registration fee. And who will pay the dog tax for the stray dogs roaming on the streets? If a household has more than one pet dog paying the dog tax could mean extra financial burden. Will the dog tax be used for the welfare of the pet dogs? It is pertinent to note that dog lovers usually adopt stray dogs from the dog shelter. If they have to pay dog tax then it will dissuade them from adopting these stray dogs. Hence the number of stray dogs will only increase in due course. The authorities concerned need to have a rethink on imposing dog tax.
