Team Herald
PANJIM: In a move that has sparked mixed reactions, the Goa State Cabinet has approved the ban on two dog breeds – Rottweiler and Pitbull Terrier – citing public safety concerns.
The decision, announced by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant following a Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, prohibits the import of these breeds into the state. The ban comes in the wake of several violent incidents involving these dogs, including three high-profile attacks in Taleigao, Anjuna, and Assagao, though vets and pet lovers feel that it will ultimately be very difficult to implement the ban.
The decision follows a string of alarming events, the most notable being the tragic death of a seven-year-old boy in Anjuna, who was fatally mauled by a Pitbull in August 2024. The child was reportedly attacked while visiting a neighbour with his mother. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and renewed debates over the ownership of aggressive
dog breeds.
In response to the public outcry, animal rights organization PETA India had previously called on Goa’s Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services to take action, requesting the prohibition of breeding, selling, and owning breeds such as Pitbull Terriers and Rottweilers. The group cited concerns that these breeds, often bred for aggression, pose significant risks to both owners and the general public.
The ban follows the Centre’s March 2024 decision to outlaw 23 dog breeds, including the Rottweiler and Pitbull, although the order was later stayed by courts in Karnataka and Delhi.
Chief Minister Sawant outlined that amendments to the Goa Animal Breeding, Domestic Regulations, and Compensation Ordinance 2024 would be implemented soon. Under the new rules, individuals who currently own these breeds will be required to register their pets with the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services Department (AHVS) and ensure that the animals do not pose a threat to public safety.
While the government’s move is seen as necessary by some, it has drawn criticism from pet experts and owners. Dr Gustavo Pinto, a veterinarian, expressed disappointment over the government's intervention. He argued that the ban unfairly targets responsible pet owners due to the actions of a few irresponsible individuals. “It is unfortunate that the government feels the need to interfere in personal pet ownership based on the negligence of a few, leading to tragic incidents," Pinto said. "The responsibility should lie with dog owners to control their pets. Unfortunately, it's only after such attacks that the government steps in."
Pet business owner Chaitanya Malkarnekar shared similar concerns, questioning the practicality of enforcing such a ban. "Banning breeds like this is an easy decision to make, but incredibly difficult to implement. The government has no real data on how many of these breeds exist in the state, and monitoring their ownership is a near-impossible task," Malkarnekar said, adding that controlling pets is far more challenging than regulating products like cigarettes or drugs.
On the other hand, animal welfare advocate Sanchita Banerjee, trustee of Panjim Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), supported the ban, calling it a necessary step to address rising concerns about irresponsible pet ownership. "Banning certain dog breeds is a vital measure to curb illegal breeding and protect public safety," Banerjee said. "Many of these dogs are bought as status symbols, only to be neglected or mistreated, which exacerbates their aggressive tendencies. Strict enforcement and education, along with alternatives, can help break the cycle of cruelty and ensure a safer environment for both animals and people."
WHAT WILL EXISTING ROTTWEILER AND PITBULL OWNERS DO?
Once the amendments to the Goa Animal Breeding, Domestic Regulations, and Compensation Ordinance 2024 are implemented, individuals who own these breeds will be required to register their pets with the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services Department