A distressing yet inspiring story has emerged from Valpoi, Goa, shedding light on the dangers of plastic pollution and the commitment of local animal welfare heroes. Ten days ago, a cow in visible distress was found near Haldankar House in the Valpoi municipal area. The team from Jai Shriram Gaushala Valpoi promptly responded and rescued the animal, suspecting it had ingested harmful waste.
Veterinarians Dr. Siddesh Pednekar, in charge of the Valpoi veterinary dispensary, and Dr. Raghunath Dhuri from Jai Shriram Gosavardhan Kendra led the medical intervention. Assisted by veterinary staff Amay Kurttikar and Laukik Bibavnekar, the team conducted a delicate surgery—only to discover a shocking 15 kilograms of plastic lodged in the cow’s stomach.
The successful operation saved the cow’s life and exposed the grim reality of plastic consumption among stray animals. In urban and semi-urban areas, cattle often rummage through garbage for food, unknowingly ingesting toxic plastic waste. This can result in severe health complications, including digestive blockages, internal injuries, or death.
The veterinary team’s efforts have drawn widespread praise from local residents and animal welfare supporters across Goa. Their dedication not only gave the cow a second chance but also sparked renewed calls for stronger waste management practices and greater public awareness about the hazards of plastic pollution.
This incident underscores the urgent need to support local gaushalas, equip veterinary services, and implement stricter regulations on plastic use and disposal—before more lives, animal or human, are put at risk.