The Hindu 05.02.2014
Second phase of sterilisation of stray dogs commences
The second phase of ‘Mission Rabies’ which is aimed at
sterilisation of stray dogs under Animal Birth Control Project began
here on Tuesday.
Around 5,000 dogs in outer areas of
the city and in municipalities and town panchayats will be sterilised in
a special drive to be conducted till the end of this month.
The
Madurai Corporation in collaboration with World Veterinary Service
(WVS) and with the support of the district administration is
implementing the ‘Mission Rabies’ programme to prevent rabies caused to
humans due to dog bites.
Mayor V.V. Rajan Chellappa,
Commissioner Kiran Gurrala and City Health Officer V. Yasodha Mani
visited the well-equipped sterilisation centre at Sellur here on Tuesday
where an intensive training programme is also being conducted for
veterinarians and supporting staff for 10 days.
“Dog
bites became a menace and this sterilisation campaign will put an end to
it. It is for the safety of people,” the Mayor told a press conference
after his meeting with WVS team.
Appupillai Murugan,
South India Regional Manager- Mission Rabies, WVS India, said that the
highlight of second phase was the arrival of all-terrain modern
veterinary operation truck which would be positioned at Corporation’s
Sellur centre.
“In the first phase conducted in
September last, 8,533 dogs were sterilised in the city. Now, we are
focusing on outer areas such as Tirumangalam, Melur and
Tirupparankundram,” he said. Last month, Collector L.Subramanian
convened a meeting to discuss the implementation of second phase of
‘Mission Rabies.’
Dr.Murugan said that the modern
mobile unit had all facilities inside, including surgery tables, X-ray
and scan machines. Through ‘Mission Rabies,’ public awareness of
preventing rabies cases and training for veterinary doctors would be
undertaken.
Special programmes for schoolchildren
would be conducted during this month in panchayat schools by the WVS
members. “All guidelines on animal safety are followed and there is no
scope for cruelty at all. Birth control is the best way to contain
rabies and prevent deaths caused by dog bites,” he added.