‘Veterinary OPD cases surge from 50,000 to 450,000’
Srinagar: In response to the recent media frenzy over pet health, Dr. Altaf Geelani, Superintendent of the Central Veterinary Hospital in Srinagar, clarified on Monday that there is no immediate danger to pets or public health.
Addressing media here in Srinagar as per news gathering agency KINS, Dr Altaf said, “The main objective of our communication was to raise awareness about pet care, including timely deworming, vaccination, and maintaining hygiene,” .
“Unfortunately, a brief 15-second clip aired on a private channel created unnecessary panic. We want to assure the public that with proper care, the health of pets—and by extension, their owners—is not at risk.”
Dr. Geelani explained that the hospital’s outpatient department (OPD) treats around 50,000 cases annually, with the number rising dramatically this year to 450,000 cases.
A significant issue, he noted, was the lack of vaccination and deworming for many pets, which had not been administered in the last one to two years. This, he warned, posed a risk to animal health.
“We are working hard to develop a culture of responsible pet ownership in the region,” he continued. “Through our high-tech facilities, including over 100 ultrasounds and 60-70 surgeries per month, we are committed to providing comprehensive care for animals. Additionally, we conduct 2,500 lab tests each month, all free of charge, as part of our ongoing effort to enhance public awareness and ensure pets remain healthy.”
Dr. Geelani reiterated that the primary goal of the hospital’s outreach efforts was educational, not alarmist.
“The core of our message is simple: Regular deworming, vaccinations, and maintaining hygiene for pets are essential,” he stated. “If these measures are followed, there is no significant health risk to either pets or their human companions.”
Further addressing concerns about potential diseases in pets, Dr. Geelani assured that with proper care, the risk of transmission was minimal. He cited climate change as another factor contributing to the spread of fungal infections in pets, particularly during the transition between winter and spring.
The hospital has been proactive in spreading awareness through various district-level camps, offering vaccinations and health checkups. “While our mandate is hospital-based, we are collaborating with local initiatives and working closely with other health departments to ensure pets across the region receive the care they need,” said Dr. Geelani.
Dr. Geelani reiterated the importance of maintaining regular veterinary care for pets, underscoring that proper precautions would prevent the spread of any potential diseases.
“We are always available to the public through our social media platforms and hospital services. Our goal is to ensure that pets and their owners remain healthy, safe, and well-informed,” he added.(KINS)
