MARGAO
The Local Animal Birth Control (ABC) Monitoring Committee, Margao, has decided to permit painless euthanasia of critically ill, fatally injured, or rabid dogs on a case-to-case basis, using Sodium Pentothal.
The Committee clarified that such decisions will be taken only by a sub-committee comprising two Veterinary Officers and a representative of a recognised Animal Welfare Organisation. It was further resolved that detailed reasons for each case of euthanasia will be recorded in writing.
The decision was taken at a meeting of the Local ABC Monitoring Committee held at the Margao Municipal Council, in accordance with the provisions of the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023.
The move followed a request by Margao Municipal Chief Officer Madhu Narvekar, the ex-officio Chairman of the Committee, seeking authorisation for veterinary doctors on the panel to determine, on a case-to-case basis, the necessity of euthanasia of critically ill, fatally injured, or rabid dogs, strictly through painless methods using Sodium Pentothal.
Explaining the roles and responsibilities of the Committee under the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023, the Chief Officer stated that the panel is responsible for the planning, implementation, and management of the dog population control programme in accordance with the rules.
He also informed the Committee that guidelines need to be issued to pet dog owners, emphasising that registration of pet dogs with the Municipal Council is mandatory. The Department of Urban Development has already worked out the modalities for the same. Additionally, commercial dog breeders operating within municipal limits will be required to identify themselves and register with the Council after obtaining the necessary authorisations from the Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services and Health Authorities.
The Chief Officer sought assistance from the Urban Health Department and the District Hospital to monitor dog bite cases, including details such as the cause of the bite, the location, and whether the dog involved was stray or pet-owned.
During the meeting, the civic body also stressed the need to conduct a comprehensive survey of the dog population within the municipal jurisdiction. As the local NGO expressed its inability to undertake the survey, it was suggested that the Council seek assistance from Mission Rabies to carry out a stray dog survey in the commercial capital.
Notably, the Chief Officer informed the Committee that the Municipal Council has prepared a detailed estimate for establishing a dog shelter within its jurisdiction, including all necessary infrastructure for effective implementation of the ABC programme. The proposal has been forwarded to the government for sanction of the required funds.
