Ghaziabad: Shikhar Enclave AOA forbids pet dogs in common areas

The high-rise societies of Delhi NCR are home to many residents. But along with humans, they are also home to their pet animals such as cats and dogs. While being very dear to their owners, their presence sometimes disturbs other residents.

The Apartment Owners Association (AOA) members of Shikhar Enclave in Vasundhara's sector 15 have decided that pet dogs living in the residential area will not be allowed in common areas and the central park. If at all seen, they would have to wear a face mask. As per AOA members, the decision has been taken for the safety of all residents, especially senior citizens and children.

As gathered, certain residents had been raising the issue of pet dogs causing injury to the residents. In this regard, the AOA team met with Ghaziabad's higher authorities on July 11, 2022 in which the District Magistrate of Ghaziabad, and Municipal Corporation members were present.

The decision to forbid pet dogs in common areas has left the residents divided. While one section is happy about the new guidelines, the pet owners find them unnecessary and harsh. Sandeep, the general secretary of AOA says, "We have issued the guidelines, which have been posted on the society's notice board. We hope that everyone follows them."

Harish Kumar, AOA President, says, "We have taken a proper step which should have been taken earlier. We have seen a few pet dogs chase children while they play. In the process, they get hurt. For us, all residents are equal. We don't have any issues with the people who have pets, but on the other hand, we have received complaints from other residents who charge that the pet dogs threaten their safety."

These are the guidelines:

• Pet dogs are not permitted to walk in the common area or Central Park, and you are not permitted to sit with them in these areas.
• Take the dogs directly to your flats.
• You have to register the dog and submit its copy to the AOA.
• Put a net mask over the dog's mouth before releasing it into society.
• Take the dog only when the lift is empty.
• If any dog does harm to anyone, then the owner would be responsible for it.

Dev Rampal Singh, a resident says, "I am very happy about this decision. Many of us are witnesses to the fact that pet dogs are threatening our safety. Although some people are opposing these guidelines, I think they are very necessary."

However, the pet owners are not happy. A pet owner from the society who wishes to remain anonymous, says, "Our dogs do not bite and are very friendly to everyone. Furthermore, we take our dog to the veterinarian regularly for vaccinations. The current guidelines are unfair."