Team Herald
MARGAO: In the wake of a series of disturbing stray dog attacks in South Goa — including the grisly mauling of a 15-month-old baby who died from her injuries, and a recent incident involving a Russian child — concerned citizens and local authorities are calling for urgent action to manage the growing stray dog population.
The first incident, which shook the quiet locality of Durgabhat in Ponda, involved the brutal death of a Anabiya Shaikh, just over a year old, who was attacked by a pack of stray dogs. Eyewitnesses reported that the child had briefly wandered out of her house while waiting for her mother to accompany her to Friday prayers, when she was suddenly mauled by the dogs.
Just days after this heartbreaking incident, another attack was reported at Betalbatim beach. A six-year-old Russian girl was injured after being bitten by a stray dog while playing near the shore. Lifeguards stationed nearby quickly intervened and rescued the girl, averting a potentially more serious outcome.
Responding to the mounting pressure, authorities are now accelerating efforts to address the issue on a war footing. Srinet Kothwale, Additional Collector-I, confirmed that the administration is in the process of signing Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with local governing bodies to facilitate the creation of dedicated dog shelters across villages and towns in Goa.
“There is a scheme designed by the Animal Husbandry Department under which financial assistance is provided to local bodies to establish dog shelters. We are urging all village panchayats and municipalities to take advantage of this scheme and help tackle the problem collectively,” said Kothwale.
He added that, in addition to sheltering, authorities are placing significant emphasis on vaccination and sterilization as long-term strategies to reduce aggressive behaviour and control the stray dog population. As of April 19, nearly 562 stray dogs have been sterilised across areas from Cavelossim to Fatrade, he revealed.
Dixon Vaz, Sarpanch of the Cavelossim village panchayat, who has been vocal about the issue, stressed the importance of establishing large, professionally-managed shelters.
“The only viable solution is to have two major dog shelters — one in North Goa and one in the South — similar to Gaushalas. Last year, we submitted a draft plan to the Animal Husbandry Department proposing such a facility in the South, and now it needs to be implemented,” Vaz said.
He emphasized the need for NGOs and animal welfare organizations to be involved in the daily operation of these shelters, including the provision of food, water, medical treatment, and care for the dogs.
“Sterilization and vaccination are crucial in the long run, but we need immediate, tangible solutions. Right now, no one is taking full responsibility for these dogs, and their numbers continue to rise,” Vaz warned.
With tourists increasingly affected — especially in coastal areas like Betalbatim, Colva, Benaulim, Cavelossim etc — the recurring attacks have raised concerns about Goa’s reputation as a safe travel destination. Locals, too, are growing more fearful, particularly for the safety of young children in neighborhoods where stray dog populations are high.
Many citizens are now demanding that the government not only implement short-term rescue and vaccination missions but also create a comprehensive, long-term strategy for animal welfare and
public safety.