I feel it is a common practice in Goa to keep dogs chained for a long period of time. In every village or city of Goa where I have traveled, I have seen the same barking and howling of chained dogs, which sears the nerves. It’s amazing how man, who God has graced with intellect, reasoning power, and compassion, can imprison pets in chains for long periods, making them ferocious. Dogs are social animals and faithful friends of man for years together, who live in packs. They love to interact and play with other dogs, people, children, etc. They need to be able to run and move their limbs to maintain their muscular systems.
Animals chained are denied their basic needs to run and be free. I have seen in my neighborhood a female dog delivered puppies chained, denying the mother to play with and educate her puppies. Chaining for a long duration causes gross psychological distress to the dog or any animal, for that matter, resulting in incessant barking they exhibit. In such cases, they can be a threat to children, as increasing cases of dog bites are noticed. Is there any logic to this barbaric practice? It is nothing but an abuse of power and lack of compassion to our fellow creatures (animals).
