All you need to know about licensing of pet dogs and cats in Chennai

With the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) extending the date for mandatory pet licensing in the 15 zones of Chennai till December 7, 2025, here’s what you need to know to complete the process:

The license can be obtained by getting your pet dog microchipped and vaccinated at any GCC pet clinic or private clinic and applying for it online with proof through a portal which was launched in October 2025.

When, where and how?

Pet dog owners in GCC areas are advised to have their dogs get vaccinated with the anti-rabies vaccine and microchipped.

Then, the owners must proceed to apply for a licence online through a designated portal, paying an annual fee of ₹50 per pet along with submission of vaccination proof.

While microchipping for cats is optional, vaccinations are conducted at clinics prior to the online registration process.

The provision of free services like microchipping and vaccination for the pets is available at the veterinary clinics in Thiru Vi Ka Nagar, Nungambakkam, Kannammapet, Meenambakkam, Pulianthope, and Llyods Colony from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on all days of the week, including Sundays.

What are the things pet owners should be taking before going to clinic?

The owners need to provide their name and phone number at the clinic to have their pets vaccinated and microchipped.

Is microchipping safe?

“Yes, microchipping is safe and it is recommended for all companion dogs regardless of breed and size. An ideal age for microchipping a puppy would be at eight weeks,” explained Samaran Thamarai, Humane Education Officer at Blue Cross of India.

What will happen if pet owners miss the deadline?

After December 7, the authorities will conduct a door-to-door inspection. The primary fine of ₹5000 will be imposed for each unlicensed pet discovered.

What about areas outside the GCC?

The GCC designated clinics offer free vaccinations for pet owners, including other areas. However, microchipping is restricted only to pets from GCC areas.

For instance, pet owners in the Tambaram corporation can access vaccination services, but microchipping and registration for pets are not mandatory in this jurisdiction.