PONDA: Pondaites have demanded urgent sterilisation of the growing number of stray dogs in the town. On an average more than 100 dog bite cases are recorded at the Ponda Sub-District Hospital which shows alarming rise in dog bite cases.
Locals has urged the Ponda Municipal Council (PMC) to pay immediate attention to the issue since it affects the residents of Ponda.
Over the past few months, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of stray dogs in various parts of the town. This situation not only poses a threat in terms of spread of rabies but the these dogs themselves from hunger, neglect and hardship. This can potentially drive them to attack people, especially children.
Locals has urged to reduce the stray dog population through humane methods such as sterilization by signing agreement with NGOs working for such animals.
Meanwhile in a letter to chief officer of PMC, Goa Forward Party urged the Ponda Municipality to take three immediate measures as follows: Firstly releasing the necessary funds to the People For Animals NGO, earmarked for the sterilization of stray dogs. Funds are available with the Directorate of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services under the Animal Birth Control Scheme, he said. Secondly he called for collaborating more closely with PFA to develop a long-term, sustainable strategy for managing and reducing the stray dog population in Ponda and third, educating the public about responsible pet ownership and the importance of sterilization for safe and peaceful life of citizens.
