PANJIM: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant’s statement declaring that dogs of specific breed, known for their aggression and attacks on humans, will be banned in the State, may not see the light of the day, as it faces hurdles following pressure from animal rights activists.
According to official sources, as per the advice of the Directorate of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, the panchayats and municipalities had moved a note on registration of dogs, but it could not be taken up further due to pressure from animal rights activists.
“As far as registration of dogs is concerned, the mandate is with the municipalities and panchayats. The local bodies had moved a note, but it was opposed by the animal rights activists,” said an official from Directorate of Animal Husbandry told O Heraldo on condition of anonymity.
According to the official, “Even the database of dogs in Goa, which was supposed to be prepared, is not happening. The possibility is that a database of only Rottweiler and Pit bull dogs will be prepared. Staff from the Animal Husbandry Department will visit houses and maintain a record of ferocious dogs owned by people in the State.”
“The other breeds of dogs which were supposed to be banned are not in Goa. It is not happening at all," the official said.
However, he said that the census of dogs will start in September and the final figures of population of dogs will be known by January next year. Currently, the State has approximately 1.57 lakh dogs, which include domestic as well pet dogs.
It may be recalled that in a significant announcement aimed at enhancing public safety, Chief Minister, Pramod Sawant had declared that dogs of specific breeds known for their aggression and attacks on humans would be banned in the State.
The announcement was made on World Rabies Day last year, as the move was intended to protect residents and visitors from potential harm caused by ferocious dog breeds. By taking such a proactive step, the State government was prioritising the safety and well-being of its citizens, aligning with the spirit of World Rabies Day, which advocates for rabies prevention and responsible pet ownership.
The Chief Minister had cited an incident that took place in August last year when a Rottweiler jumped over the gate of a house at Taleigao and attacked two children, leaving one seriously injured.
It was a nightmare for the two siblings aged between five and seven years, as they were brutally mauled by a Rottweiler in a horrific incident at Shivnagar-Alto-Oitiyant, Taleigao.
According to the passersby, the ferocious dog had managed to get out of the compound of a bungalow and pounced on the little kids brutally attacking them.
Later, the Panjim Police had arrested the dog owner Madhav Rao Chawan on charges of negligence.