132 stray dogs vaccinated against rabies in Goghat

A total of 132 stray dogs were vaccinated against rabies in Goghat I Block at the initiative of the animal welfare department, in collaboration with Ashray Home and Hospital for Animal Welfare Association.

Last Thursday, trained dog catchers from the Ashray Home and Hospital Animal Welfare Association carried out the vaccination drive across several villages in the block, strictly adhering to medical and hygiene protocols.

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An awareness meeting was later organised at the BDO office to mark World Rabies Day and Animal Welfare Day. The president of the panchayat samiti, the chief executive officer, block administrative officials and members of the Ashray Home and Hospital Animal Welfare Association were present. Discussions focused on the dangers of rabies, the importance of vaccinating stray dogs, citizens’ duties in preventing cruelty to animals, and the legal rights of animals.

Veterinarian Dr Sushoban Chowdhury spoke about the Supreme Court’s directives regarding the Animal Birth Control (ABC) programme for stray dogs. The Animal Resources Development Officer, Dr Falguni Chakraborty, said that vaccination and birth control initiatives for stray dogs would significantly reduce deaths of humans and domestic animals caused by dog bites and rabies. He added that such measures would also help curb human-animal conflict and incidents of cruelty towards stray dogs.

Dog vaccination, including anti-rabies vaccines (ARV) and DHPPi shots, along with regular deworming, is regarded as an effective way to prevent serious diseases, reduce dog bites and improve public health. Such efforts contribute to a healthier community and foster better coexistence between people and stray dogs.

Rajiv Belel and Tupai Hazra, members of the Ashray Home and Hospital for Animal Welfare Association, emphasised the need to expand awareness programmes and called for an end to cruelty against animals.