The month of May brought with it an increase in heat and humidity. And this, in a way, has also affected the strays on the South Goa beaches.
During the past few weeks, there have been reports of run-ins with stray dogs on Goa’s beaches. With three lifeguards and many tourists falling prey to the bites of these strays, the concern is still on.
This month, in a span of two weeks, three on-duty Drishti Marine lifesavers were bitten by stray dogs while patrolling the beaches, and received first aid and medical attention.
Last week, Bollywood actor Rayya Labib, of Lakme (2016) fame, sustained bruises and scratches after she was chased by stray dogs at Colva beach while holidaying in Goa.
In another case, a 24-year-old Russian woman, cycling on Benaulim beach, was attacked by a pack of strays.
After local fishermen came to her rescue, and treated her for injuries sustained during her encounter with stray dogs, she posted a video on social media, requesting the department to make sure that such incidents are taken care of.
“I have come to Goa for the first time. I fell in love with the state for its clean and pristine beaches, the kind and loving people and the food is delicious. But, there is one problem which needs to be highlighted, especially about the stray dog menace,” the tourist said on her social media post.
She suggested that there could be care houses built for these animals. “If there are care houses built for the dogs, the tourists will be safe.”
Oscar Silveira, an expert in pet training and animal behaviour, feels the government has to look at ways to make the State safe for tourists by finding ways to cut down the stray’s population.
Oscar Silveira, an expert in pet training and animal behaviour, feels the government has to look at ways to make the State safe for tourists by finding ways to cut down the stray’s population.
“Goa earns a lot through tourists, and if they don’t feel safe here, it will lead to fewer tourists. The stray dogs need to get sterilised, and Mission Rabies is doing their bit. But, it will take some time for the situation to get better,” Silveira said.
Some fisherfolk from Benaulim believe that since shacks are shutting down for the season, the leftover food (from the shacks) which was given to the strays has stopped.
Carlos, a trawler owner, said, “Leftover food from most of the shacks would be given to the strays. Now that they are closed, the dogs remain hungry and attack people.”
Veteran veterinarian, Dr Gustav Pinto, says that one must take precautions when they spot an aggressive dog.
“Don’t run when you see a dog coming towards you. Stay still. The dog will smell you and let you go. Do not stone or hit the dog – it could retaliate,” he cautions.