PONDA
As many as 1,121 dogs were sterilised and vaccinated during an intensive 30-day drive in Ponda conducted by the Worldwide Veterinary Service (WVS) Goa in partnership with Mission Rabies India and the Ponda Municipal Council (PMC).
The campaign, which exceeded the original target of 1,000, reflected the collaboration between animal welfare professionals and the local community.
WVS Goa and Mission Rabies India managed the campaign, including the camp site, surgical setup, medical supplies, vets, animal handlers, and catching teams.
The camp was preceded by detailed dog-sight surveys to plan coverage efficiently and ensure catching teams were deployed where they were needed.
For 30 consecutive days, through weekends and even Diwali, the team worked tirelessly in the field and in surgery.
Extensive pre-camp awareness played a pivotal role in the initiative. Humane education sessions in schools and wards, combined with an integrated awareness campaign, helped build understanding and trust across the community.
A short video ad, screened daily at the Ponda bus stand, amplified the message, reaching thousands of commuters.
THE COLLABORATION
Dr Stacy Sequeira, Director of WVS HICKS Goa, lauded the success of the campaign in Ponda.
“Ponda stepped up for its animals, showing support in huge numbers. Beyond the logistics and numbers, the Ponda camp stood as a rare blend of science and compassion in action,” said Dr Sequeira.
“It showcased how structured, evidence-based veterinary work can coexist beautifully with empathy and care. Initiatives like this go far beyond animal welfare; they strengthen public health systems, reduce human“animal conflict, and foster safer, more compassionate communities.”
“The campaign became more than a sterilisation drive; it became a statement of what’s possible when humanity and science work side by side.”
Dr Sequeira said the achievement belonged to everyone who made it possible, from veterinarians, catchers, animal handlers, and coordinators to volunteers, local authorities, and community members who collaborated throughout these 30 days.
“Pulling off a camp of this scale takes not just planning but belief: belief in teamwork and in purpose. It is work done for those who cannot speak for themselves, and it takes a rare kind of compassion, resilience, and courage to do it. This campaign set a new benchmark for community-led animal welfare.”
Lead outreach veterinarian Dr Sarang Naik, also from Ponda, said the 1,121 milestone was more than a number.
“It was a reflection of teamwork, direction, and dedication at every level. Our effort, energy, and teamwork made this achievement possible,” said Dr Naik.
Vishvav Naik, member of AWE Goa, officer of DSPCA North and a Ponda resident who actively supported the camp, said the large-scale sterilisation drive in Ponda came at a much-needed hour.
“It is a great help to the community, and we cannot thank WVS enough for their compassionate service,” he said.
Goa Animal Federation (GAF) Vice President Prakash Kamat said the camp demonstrated top-level commitment, dedication, and professionalism.
“We hope other municipalities will follow the example of PMC in getting community dogs sterilised in their respective areas,” said Kamat.
