Goa Police Conduct Veterinary Examination of Horse Following Viral Social Media Video
In an unusual incident highlighting the intersection of social media and animal welfare enforcement, the Bicholim police station in Goa summoned a five-year-old horse for a comprehensive medical check-up. This action was prompted by a video that circulated widely on various social media platforms, showing the animal being ridden on a state highway in the Bicholim area.
Viral Video Triggers Police Investigation and Veterinary Summons
The video, which was originally posted on Sunday, quickly gained traction online, going viral and drawing significant public attention. By Wednesday, the Bicholim police had taken formal action, summoning both the horse's owner and the animal itself to the police station. Demonstrating a thorough approach, the authorities also called a veterinary doctor to the station to conduct a professional examination of the horse.
After a detailed assessment, the veterinary officer declared the horse to be in good health. Dr. Gayatridas Gauthankar, the attending veterinary officer, stated, "I checked the horse in the presence of the Bicholim police inspector. He is healthy, well maintained, and well fed." Following this positive medical report, the horse was permitted to leave the police station with its owner.
Police Face Challenges in Tracing the Correct Animal
The investigation was not without its complications. Bicholim police inspector Vijay Rane Sardesai explained the difficulties encountered in locating the specific horse featured in the viral video. "We traced one horse and walked it to the police station, but it turned out to be a different animal," Sardesai recounted. The police then resumed their search, successfully located the correct horse seen in the video, and contacted its owner.
"After the medical examination confirmed it was fit, the horse was handed back," Inspector Sardesai added, detailing the conclusion of the procedure.
Owner Provides Background on the Horse's Care and History
The horse's owner, Kanishk Pednekar, a resident of Bicholim, shared insights into the animal's background and care regimen. Pednekar revealed that he purchased the horse approximately four-and-a-half years ago from Rajasthan and rides it frequently. He emphasized his commitment to the animal's well-being, noting that veterinary doctors from Pune visit Goa to examine the horse whenever he requests their services.
Pednekar further disclosed that just eight days prior to this incident, a veterinarian from Pune had examined the horse and declared it to be fit and healthy. This recent check-up underscores the owner's proactive approach to maintaining the animal's health, despite the unexpected police intervention triggered by the viral social media post.
The incident has sparked discussions about animal welfare protocols, the role of social media in reporting potential issues, and the responsiveness of law enforcement agencies in addressing such concerns. While the horse was ultimately found to be in good condition, the event highlights how digital platforms can quickly bring attention to matters that might otherwise go unnoticed, prompting official action to ensure compliance with animal care standards.
