Bhubaneswar, Aug 28: Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) Mayor Sulochana Das has urged pet dog owners to act responsibly and ensure that their animals do not cause inconvenience or pose a threat to other residents.

Her statement came after a recent incident in Patiala where a couple was reportedly attacked by a dog.

The mayor said there was no issue with residents keeping pet dogs at home, but owners must take full responsibility for their pets. She warned that legal action could be taken if a pet causes trouble or harms others.

“People can keep dogs at home, but they must do so responsibly,” Das said.

She also raised concerns over pet dogs defecating in public places and damaging beautification work carried out by the BMC. She said pet ownership does not give anyone the right to create problems for other residents.

The mayor further advised dog owners to keep their pets under proper control while taking them outdoors to prevent incidents involving attacks or injuries.

Das appealed to pet owners to follow responsible practices and help maintain public safety, cleanliness and the city's beautification.