Panaji: The Goa government has withheld its proposed ban on certain breeds of ferocious dogs despite rise in dog attacks and bite cases in the State. The Rottweiler attack on two minors in Taleigao and a pregnant woman mauled by a pack of 10 dogs – adopted by a luxurious villa owner in Vasco – both reported last year, prompted the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services Department to identify ferocious dogs. The State's ban decision was strengthened when the Central Government issued an order banning 23 breeds of dogs this year.
However, with the order challenged in the Karnataka High Court, the move has been temporarily halted. Statement Of Minister Nilkanth Halarnkar "The Central Government had issued a DO letter dated March 12, 2024, recommending prohibitions on the import, breeding, and sale of 23 dog breeds for various purposes. However, due to reservations expressed by the Karnataka High Court, the enforcement of these prohibitions has been withheld until further notice.
In view of the above, the proposed ban by the State Government on ferocious breeds of dogs is kept on hold," Minister Nilkanth Halarnkar said responding to an unstarred question posed by Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao. Besides attacks by pet dogs, Goa has seen a spree of stray dog attacks. Decline In Number Of Dog Bite Cases In Goa The number of dog bite cases in Goa has seen a decline over recent years, yet concerns persist as incidents involving both locals and tourists continue.
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