Punjab government imposes tax on pets like dogs and cats

Punjab : People residing in Punjab will have to pay tax for having domestic animal in their houses, said a latest notice issued by the state government.

According to a notification issued by the Department of Local Administration headed by state minister Navjot Singh Siddhu, all pet animals will now be taxed, including cats, dogs, horses, pigs, buffaloes and cows. 

As per the notice, Rs 250 per year to be paid for for dog/cat/pig/sheep/deer etc and Rs 500 per year for buffalo/bull/camel/horse/cow/elephant etc.

After paying the mentioned amount, government will issue a "branding code", identification mark or number for each animal. The branding code or microchip will be installed in the animal.

From now on, a pet owner in Punjab will also have to take licence from the authority, which will be renewed after every year.