The dog accompanying the “Walk for Peace” procession fell ill yesterday after being affected by heavy crowds and repeated disruptions, requiring medical treatment.

Addressing a meeting attended by K. D. Lalkantha, a senior official said large crowds — including media personnel and onlookers attempting to take selfies, photographs, and videos with the dog and participating monks — had caused significant delays and operational difficulties.

He said authorities were compelled to intervene to manage the situation, adding that both the President’s Secretary and the Acting Inspector General of Police had contacted him twice through WhatsApp group calls regarding the matter.

The “Walk for Peace” began from Dambulla under the leadership of Ven. Pannakara Thero, with the participation of members of the Maha Sangha and Aloka the Peace Dog.