.-In these rules, unless the context otherwise requires,-

(a) "Act " means the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 (59 of 1960);

(b) "Animal Welfare Organisation " means and includes the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and any other welfare organisation for animals which is registered under the Societies Registration Act of 1860 (21 of 1860) or any other corresponding law for the time being in force and which is recognised by the Animal Welfare Board of India;

(c) "Board " means the Animal Welfare Board of India, established under section 4 and as reconstituted under section 5-A of the Act;

(d) "Committee " means a committee appointed under these rules;

(e) "local authority " means a municipal committee, district board or other authority for the time being invested by law with the control and administration of any matters within a specified local area;

(f) "owner " means the owner of an animal and includes any other person in possession or custody of such animal whether with or without the consent of the owner;

(g) "Veterinary doctor " means a person who holds a degree of a recognised veterinary college and is registered with the Indian Veterinary Council.