In September and October 2025, VegVoyages Foundation sponsored a large-scale spay and neuter campaign led by Worldwide Veterinary Service (WVS) through the Ponda Sterilisation Project 2025 (PSP25). Implemented in collaboration with Mission Rabies Goa, this high-impact initiative took place in Ponda, Goa, with the goal of addressing rising human-dog conflict through humane, science-backed intervention.

Conducted from 29 September to 31 October 2025, PSP25 focused on sterilising and vaccinating community dogs across Ponda Municipality and surrounding villages. The campaign was driven by the urgent need to manage the growing street dog population, prevent rabies, and foster safer, more compassionate neighbourhoods for both people and animals.

Over the course of five weeks, a dedicated team of 30 professionals worked tirelessly in challenging conditions, including unseasonal monsoon showers, intense October heat, and even Cyclone Montha. Despite these hurdles, the team surpassed expectations, completing 1,121 canine sterilisations and administering 1,235 anti-rabies vaccinations. These efforts not only exceeded the original target of 1,000 sterilisations but also significantly strengthened local rabies prevention and public health measures.

VegVoyages Foundation’s sponsorship played a meaningful role in expanding the project’s impact. Our contribution supported the purchase of surgical kits and directly funded the cost of 100 dog sterilisations, enabling the medical team to operate at higher capacity and efficiency. By investing in infrastructure and resources that will continue to be used in future campaigns, our support extends beyond a single project cycle and contributes to long-term animal welfare in the region.

Beyond surgical intervention, PSP25 integrated two vital components: surveillance and humane education. Population surveys helped optimise trapping routes and improve efficiency, while community outreach addressed the root causes of conflict. From early September onward, education sessions were conducted in schools, municipal wards, and public service sectors. In total, 13,306 students, 1,932 teachers, and 1,492 community members were reached, making it one of the most extensive humane education drives in Ponda to date.

VegVoyages Foundation is honoured to have supported this impactful initiative and remains committed to advancing humane, community-based solutions that create lasting change.