KP allows partridge hunting, dog races with strict conditions

PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Wildlife Department has allowed partridge hunting and greyhound and pointer dog races, setting the hunting season from November 15 to January 11 under strict conditions governing permits, fees and competitions.

According to regulations issued by the wildlife department, partridge hunting will only be permitted in approved game reserves against special permits issued to holders of valid shooting licences.

The permit fees have been fixed at Rs20,000 for Category A, Rs12,000 for Category B and Rs7,000 for Category C.

The department has also allowed greyhound and pointer dog races, permitting the non-lethal pursuit of hares under specified conditions.

Dogs participating in the races must wear special protective muzzles, while the live hare must be released at the same location within five minutes of being chased.

The department has clarified that hunting, killing, possessing and trading in hares will remain prohibited.

If a hare is injured or killed during a race, the event will be treated as illegal hunting, the department said adding that the race will be immediately suspended, the licence cancelled and the organisers could face fines and imprisonment.

Under the regulations, the licence fee for a greyhound has been set at Rs2,000, while a pointer dog licence will cost Rs800.

It said that applications for holding races must be submitted at least seven days in advance, along with a fee of Rs15,000.

An additional fee of Rs5,000 will be charged for races held in game reserves or conservancies, subject to prior approval from the conservator of wildlife.

Race permits will remain valid for 28 days and will be non-transferable. Competitions will only be allowed at approved venues or on private land with the owner’s permission.

Races can only be held on Saturdays during daylight hours and must conclude before sunset.

A maximum of seven people and 15 dogs will be allowed to participate in each competition, while races will remain prohibited in national parks, wildlife sanctuaries and other protected areas.

The department has also made organisers responsible for ensuring the health and welfare of participating dogs.

It warned that violations of the prescribed conditions for partridge hunting or dog races could result in cancellation of permits and legal action.