60% of dog census done, vet dept hopes for extension in deadline

Panaji: With the deadline for Goa’s animal census fast approaching on Feb 28, the directorate of animal husbandry and veterinary services (AHVS) is racing to complete the collection of pet dog data across the state. The data being collected includes details about the pets’ age, breed, and gender.
So far, only 60% of the census has been completed, according to AHVS director Nitin Naik.
“This is the first time the state will have a comprehensive census for both stray and pet dogs. We only had the stray dog census in place so far. This is the first time such a detailed census is being conducted for pet dogs as well,” Naik said.
He said that the census process has been a major undertaking, with the AHVS staff going door-to-door to gather information, a task made more challenging by the need to personally visit each household.
Despite the tight timeline, Naik emphasised the cooperation of pet owners, stating that there have been no complaints from the staff regarding the lack of cooperation.
“We are putting all our staff to work, and they are being remunerated for their efforts. However, with 34% of the work still pending, we are hoping for an extension of the deadline to ensure the census is completed thoroughly,” he said.
As the clock ticks down, the AHVS is focused on gathering accurate and comprehensive data to ensure the success of this important initiative.
TOI had reported on Nov 22, 2024, that govt has initiated a process to catalogue dog breeds in the state alongside the 21st livestock census.