Vaccinate pets regularly to stay safe from Zoonotic diseases: Dr. Himanshu Syal
Ferozepur, July 6, 2025: To mark World Zoonoses Day, an anti-rabies vaccination camp for stray dogs will be organized on July 7, 2025, at the Veterinary Polyclinic, Ferozepur, with the support of the Municipal Council Ferozepur. This information was shared by Dr. Himanshu Syal, Deputy Director, Animal Husbandry Department.
Dr. Syal stated that keeping in view the increasing incidents of dog bites, the camp aims to vaccinate stray dogs against rabies to prevent the spread of the disease. He added that if stray dogs are vaccinated, the risk of rabies transmission from dog bites will be significantly reduced.
He also shared that World Zoonoses Day is observed globally on July 6 every year to raise awareness about zoonotic diseases — infections that spread from animals to humans, either through bites or contact with infected animal body fluids.
Zoonotic diseases are caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, prions, or parasites. Some of the most dangerous zoonotic diseases include rabies, certain strains of swine flu, leptospirosis, brucellosis, anthrax, and rickettsiosis.
Dr. Syal further said that such infections are mainly transmitted through bites from infected animals such as dogs, mongooses, cats, rabbits, etc. In case of an animal bite, he advised washing the wound with running water and soap for at least 15 minutes and then disinfecting it with alcohol or iodine solution. Immediate medical assistance should also be sought from the nearest government hospital.
He also highlighted that rabies is one of the deadliest zoonotic diseases, causing numerous fatalities globally every year. Stressing on preventive measures, he urged pet owners to vaccinate their pets, especially cats and dogs, annually. He advised that pets should not be left loose in public places and should always be taken out with a leash or chain.
Dr. Syal also appealed to the public to ensure timely vaccination of their pet dogs to safeguard themselves and their communities from rabies.