Times of India
09 December 2010
Chennai, India

The city will soon get its first pet crematorium to ensure a decent exit for pet dogs and cats, whose disposal is a problem in space–starved Chennai. Madras Canine Club (MCC) will set up the facility at the crematorium in Mylapore.

The project, a first of its kind in the city, has got the go–ahead from the Corporation of Chennai, which has allotted 2.5 grounds to set up an incinerator, said CV Sudarsan, founderpresident, MCC.

MCC has set up a fund to raise money for the project, estimated to cost 40 lakh. "Dogs will be cremated for a nominal fee that will cover the fuel costs. It will help pet owners in the city," said Sudarsan. Most owners, who live in apartments or congested residential localities, find it difficult to give a proper burial to their pets, he said.

Once the project is complete, the Blue Cross of India would be in charge of daily operations. The facility offers to cremate stray animals for free and would also help in disposing off animals that fail to respond to treatment at the Madras Veterinary college in Vepery, he said.

"Now the carcasses from the college are dumped at a burial ground in Madhavaram," said Sudarsan. The 34–year–old MCC, which is affiliated to the Kennel Club of India, is also readying to hold their 100th dog show.

The show will be from December 10 to 12. More than 700 dogs of various breeds will participate in the show to be held at the University union grounds in Chetpet. The organisers of the show will also release a book about Indian breeds of dogs such as the Rajapalayam and the Mudhol hound.