Pet registration is one of the most important things you can do as a pet owner. Doing this ensures that your pet is safe, legal, and well-documented.

A pet registration isn’t just about making a document, it is much more than that. This registration lets you travel hassle-free, avail necessary services for your pet like veterinary care, and also prove your ownership.

In this blog, we’re breaking down every aspect of pet registration in India. You’ll learn about the processes of registering your pet from a municipal corporation to the Kennel Club of India (KCI).

Whether you’re looking to renew your dog’s license, or a first-time pet owner confused about pet ownership, and registration process, this blog is for you.

A pet registration is a process of officially documenting your pet with a recognized authority of your country, or state. This authority can be anyone from your city’s municipal bodies, state government agencies, or organizations like the Kennel Club of India.

Getting your pet registered with these authorities is very important. But have you ever wondered why is it important?

Let’s find out:

• Legal Identity : Registration gives your pet a legal identity. It tells the government body that you’re your pet’s owner. There are a thousand pets in India, but registering your pet gives them an identity. Unregistered pets are regarded as stray.

• Theft Protection : What if someone tries to steal your pet? Registering your pet with an authority lets you file an FIR, and it also makes the identification of your pet easy.

• Access to Important Services : Registering your pet allows you to avail of veterinary care services, and put them in facilities that help them grow

• Vaccination Compliance : Getting your pet registered makes it easier for you to avail the necessary vaccines that they require from the government body.

• Easier Travel : Many airlines do not allow unregistered pets if you’re traveling domestically or internationally. But if you register your pet from a recognized authority then you can travel anywhere with your pet without any hassle.

Now that you know why getting your pet registered is important. Let’s find out the types of pet registration in India. There are two primary types of pet registration in India:

This is where you register your pet with a municipal body in India. Major municipalities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Chennai make it mandatory to register your pet to ensure proper pet ownership practices.

What is required to get your pet registered with a municipal authority?

• A proof of your pet’s vaccination.

• A photograph.

• An application form for registration.

The KCI focuses on registering pedigree dogs and issues certificates for breeding or show purposes. They offer a registration process that makes sure that your pet’s lineage and pedigree are well documented.

Process of KCI registration:

• Submit your dog’s details like breeding information, lineage proof, and photographs.

What is better for pet registration? Both are important. It’s not which one is better. Both are explained below:

• Municipal: A municipal registration is mandatory for legal compliance and public health.

• KCI: A KCI registration is recommended for pedigree certification and professional activities.

We know it is boring. But it is important. Here’s how you can get your pet registered in India by following these simple steps:

Make sure you have all the documents listed below ready when you’re going to get your pet registered:

1. Vaccination certificates.

2. Proof of identity and address of the owner.

3. Passport-sized photographs of the pet.

4. Microchip details (if applicable).

Now that you have these documents ready, let’s go to the real process the registration process.

Follow the guidelines below if you’re going to register your pet through a municipal authority:

1. Visit the local municipal office or online portal : Many municipalities have pet registration online, you can easily find out from their website. If online registration is not available then visit the office.

2. Fill out the registration form : Ask for the pet registration form, fill it out correctly, cross check if all the information is correct before you submit it.

3. Pay a nominal fee (varies by city) : This amount varies by city. This will be asked when you submit your pet registration form.

If you have to register your pet through the KCI then follow the process below:

1. Visit the KCI website or office : Visit the KCI office in your city or log in through their website to learn about the registration process.

2. Submit documents such as lineage details (if applicable) : Submit the necessary documents of your dog. If you have lineage details available and it is applicable to your dog then submit that too.

3. Pay the registration and certification fee : Pay the nominal fee when doing the registration.

Now that you know the registration process, but you want to make sure you get it done fast, then the next one is for you.

1. Make sure all documents are accurate and complete.

2. Use online services for registration where available.

3. Seek guidance from pet welfare organizations if needed.

Taking care of a pet in India is a mixture of legal understanding, health awareness, and logistic planning.

Given below are essential tips to ensure that your pet’s safety, health, and happiness stay consistent while pet registration:

Microchipping is a small but important step that safeguards your pets. It is a form of permanent identification that makes sure your pet is always identified even if they lose their collar or tags.

Pets with microchips are highly likely to get reunited with their owners even if they’re lost as it becomes easier to track them. In some cities like Chennai and Delhi, municipal pet registration requires proof of microchipping. 

Traveling with pets, domestically or internationally, is easier when you have the right documentation.

While a pet registration certificate is not something that’ll be accepted while traveling internationally, a pet passport and the registration combine key records like vaccination certificates, microchips, and travel permits that make it easier for international travel.

Pet registration in India might seem like just another formality, but it is important for responsible pet ownership.

It ensures your pet’s safety, gives them a legal identity, and opens a range of benefits, from hassle-free travel to access to essential services.

Whether it’s through municipal bodies or the Kennel Club of India, registering your pet reflects your commitment to their well-being and your compliance with local laws.

After all, being a pet parent is about ensuring a secure and joyful life for your pet.

Registering your pet in India is a straightforward process, but it depends on whether you’re registering through a municipal body or the Kennel Club of India (KCI). Here’s how to do it:

Municipal Pet Registration

1. Visit the Local Office or Online Portal: Check if your city’s municipal corporation offers online registration. For example, cities like Delhi, Chennai, and Mumbai provide this option.

2. Fill Out the Registration Form: Provide accurate details about your pet and cross-check before submission.

3. Submit Required Documents: Include proof of vaccination, your pet’s photograph, and your ID/address proof.

4. Pay the Registration Fee: Fees vary by city and range from ₹100 to ₹500 in most cases.

KCI Registration

1. Visit the KCI Website or Office: Log on to the Kennel Club of India’s website or contact their office.

2. Provide Dog Details: Submit lineage documentation, vaccination proof, and photos (if applicable).

3. Pay the Certification Fee: Fees depend on your dog’s pedigree and the services you choose, typically starting at ₹400.

Yes, a pet license is mandatory in many cities across India, as per local municipal laws.

• Municipal Requirements: Cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai require pets (especially dogs) to be licensed to ensure public health, vaccination compliance, and responsible ownership.

• Consequences of Non-Compliance: Unlicensed pets may be considered strays, and owners might face fines or legal challenges.

Even if your city does not mandate a license, getting one is recommended for accessing veterinary services and ensuring smooth travel with your pet.

The cost of a dog license varies based on the city and registration authority:

• Municipal Corporations: Fees typically range between ₹100 to ₹500 per year . For example:

  • Delhi (MCD): ₹500 annually.

  • Chennai: ₹150 annually.

• Kennel Club of India (KCI): For pedigree dogs, initial registration fees start at ₹400 and increase based on additional certifications.

Some municipal bodies also waive fees for sterilized pets, so check with your local office for discounts or exemptions.