A paw-some protection for beachgoers in Goa

Rohan Fernandes

PAW PATROL

The lifeguards at Goa's beaches have got a new kind of assistants - the canine squad. This Paw Squad, with a four-legged line of defense, will help them safeguard people along the State's coastline.

Goa | Drishti Marine | Lifeguards in Goa | Beaches in Goa | Paw squad in Goa| Miramar Beach | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

FIRST IN ASIA

Drishti Marine's Paw Squad is the first initiative of its kind in Asia, introducing highly trained dogs for patrolling on the beach and lifesaving efforts.

Goa | Drishti Marine | Lifeguards in Goa | Beaches in Goa | Paw squad in Goa| Miramar Beach | Raga | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

FURRY BOOST

These trained dogs will work alongside 450-plus lifesavers stationed along Goa’s coastline, enhancing the effectiveness of safety measures.

Goa | Drishti Marine | Lifeguards in Goa | Beaches in Goa | Paw squad in Goa| Miramar Beach | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

PAW-SOME PROTECTION

The Paw Squad is a pioneering approach to beach safety, combining canine skills with human expertise to ensure a safer environment for beachgoers.

Goa | Drishti Marine | Lifeguards in Goa | Beaches in Goa | Paw squad in Goa| Miramar Beach | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

TROUBLE DETECTORS

Currently, it includes five specially trained dogs who patrol the beaches, detect visitors in distress, and alert accompanying lifesavers.

Goa | Drishti Marine | Lifeguards in Goa | Beaches in Goa | Paw squad in Goa| Miramar Beach | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

PHASED ROLLOUT

This new initiative of the Paw Squad will first be launched at high-density beaches before taking it to the quieter ones.

Goa | Drishti Marine | Lifeguards in Goa | Beaches in Goa | Paw squad in Goa| Miramar Beach | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

SNIFFING DANGER

The focus of their patrols will be on non-swim zones, rocky terrain, rip-current-prone areas, and other high-risk spots along Goa's coast.

Goa | Drishti Marine | Lifeguards in Goa | Beaches in Goa | Paw squad in Goa| Miramar Beach | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

UNBREAKBALE BOND

Each dog in the Paw Squad is paired with a dedicated handler. These pairs, known as 'buddy pairs,' work seamlessly together, their shared trust and understanding evident in every action.

Goa | Drishti Marine | Lifeguards in Goa | Beaches in Goa | Paw squad in Goa| Miramar Beach | Photo: Rohan Fernandes

NEXT: Feeling Goa? 7 Ways the state resonates with the soul

SEE MORE