A distraught commercial farmer who lost 25 goats to stray dogs wants the Agriculture Ministry to look into the issue.
Virendra Kumar of Qalela, Tavua, claimed the attack happened early last Friday morning and he still has another 15 goats missing.
“We could not hear anything because of the heavy rain and it was my neighbour who informed me about the wild dogs attacking our goats,” he said.
Mr Kumar said wild dog attacks were becoming more frequent. Last year, between January to December, he lost 70 goats.
“All my hard work goes down the drain. I was hurt and saddened the way in which the dogs attacked the helpless animals.
According to Mr Kumar, he has incurred an estimated loss of more than $5000 because of the attack on his livestock.
Ministry of Agriculture permanent secretary Dr Vinesh Kumar said his team would give him a full report on the issue.
“Since the wild/stray dog attacks are becoming more frequent in the Western Division, we would be reviewing our procedures in terms of dog control.
Police spokeswoman Ana Naisoro confirmed receiving a complaint.
“Tavua police will meet with officials of the Ministry of Agriculture to address this matter.”
