Given the fact that the Goa Government has been unable to address and redress the grievances of Humans, it should at least try to ensure that our State is freed of the alarming menace of stray dogs and cattle.
The stray dog and cattle population has reached frightening levels plaguing every nook and corner of the State which is very worrisome. Even our beaches have not been spared. The government needs to tackle this issue with a sense of urgency so that people can walk on the streets and travel on the roads without any hindrance. The stray dog population is multiplying all over with every city and village infested with the menace. The anguish and distress faced by a victim of a dog bite is only to be experienced or seen. Many years ago a toddler at Ribandar lost both eyes after being attacked and mauled by a stray dog. He is growing up now without eyes. Lots of people are also terrified of their bark, growl and being chased risking personal injury, anxiety and fear. There is a need and necessity for the authorities to consider the seriousness of the stray dog menace. The welfare of dogs cannot supersede the well being of Humans. Over the years crores have been spent on tackling the stray dog menace but the situation is just getting shoddier. The so called sterilization programme is just not working. Sterilization alone can anyway never be the only solution to this grave and alarming crisis of stray dogs. There is a need to educate people on their responsibility for owning pets and garbage management so that strays are not encouraged to be attracted to easily available litter and garbage on our streets and neighborhoods. Animal welfare organizations have been making tall claims about their successes in controlling the stray dog population. However, the general public remains unimpressed as the stray dog population grows relentlessly. Pet animals may be an asset to the society. It is also true that animals are required to be protected from unnecessary pain and suffering. However, when it comes to choosing between the sufferings of human beings due to a dog bite, obviously the weight age will have to be given to the suffering of humans. There is a need and necessity to consider the seriousness of the stray dog menace in a very dispassionate manner uninfluenced by any emotional issues. Will it need the kin of a Minister to be mauled by a rabid dog for the authorities to act on this grave issue? Aires Rodrigues Advocate High Court C/G-2, Shopping Complex Ribandar Retreat, Ribandar – Goa – 403006 Mobile No: 9822684372 Office Tel No: (0832) 2444012 Email: [email protected] Or [email protected] You can also reach me on Facebook.com/ AiresRodrigues Twitter@rodrigues_aires www.airesrodrigues.com
