Panaji: With the stray dog menace continuing to haunt visitors to Goa’s beaches, the Tourism Department has
asked the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services (AHVS) to conduct a dog sterilisation drive at the beaches from Monday onwards.
“We have already given instructions to AHVS and Mission Rabies to intensify the sterilisation drive and it has to go on at least for the next six months continuously so that the dog population declines in the future. This will lead to reduction
in the cases of dog bites,” said Tourism Director Kedar Naik.
The Tourism Department, along with the officials of the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services (AHVS), Mission Rabies and representatives of Goa Shack Owners Association held a meeting to discuss the issue.
Additionally, as part of this effort, injured dogs will be rescued, treated and rehabilitated.
Naik said they will target the beaches based on the feedback the department has received from the shack operators.
“They have suggested four-five beaches – Colva and Benaulim in South Goa and Ozrant in North Goa, which will be taken up first,” he said.
In the last couple of months, the state has reported several cases of dog bites at Goa’s beaches mainly in South Goa.
“The department is committed to ensuring a safe and responsible tourism ecosystem. This sterilisation drive will not only help curb the stray dog menace but also promote a more hygienic and animal-friendly environment. We urge all stakeholders to co-operate and support this initiative for the greater good of Goa’s tourism sector,” said Naik.
To further strengthen Goa’s efforts in combating rabies, the Mission Rabies hotline will be widely promoted through hoardings and awareness campaigns.
