The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has identified the owner of a Labrador that was found abandoned in a severely neglected condition using the microchip implanted in the dog, and has decided to initiate action against the owner.

The dog, which was allegedly abandoned about a week ago, was brought to the Besant Memorial Animal Dispensary (BMAD) from Purasawakkam by members of the public.

Sources at the BMAD said that the animal was in a poor condition, with maggot-infested wounds around its eyes and other parts of the body. The dog is currently undergoing treatment.

Authorities traced the owner through the microchip. In 2025, the GCC made it mandatory for pet dogs to be registered, micro-chipped, and vaccinated against rabies to maintain accurate records of pet ownership, improve disease control, and promote responsible pet care across the city.

Each microchip carries a unique 15-digit identification number that can be read using an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) scanner. Once registered, the number is linked to details such as the pet’s name, breed, vaccination records, and the owner’s contact information, enabling authorities to identify the animal if it is lost.

GCC Veterinary Officer Kamal Husain said the case demonstrated the importance of mandatory microchipping. “We went to the registered address after tracing the microchip, but the owner was not there. Through the phone, we confirmed that they had moved to a rental place. The owner informed us that there were restrictions in the house they had moved to. So this seems like a clear case of abandonment,” he said.

Mr. Husain said the GCC plans to initiate police action under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.

Asked whether a fine would be imposed on the owner, he said the order on pet registration prescribes a fine of ₹5,000 for unlicensed dogs and ₹500 for dogs that are not kept on a leash in public places. However, it does not specify a penalty for abandonment.

A penalty will be decided and imposed if the owner fails to comply with the notice issued, he said.