Sri Vijaya Puram, July 29: The Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AH&VS) organised a series of awareness programmes on stray dogs, dog bite prevention and safety measures in several schools across the Car Nicobar Island.
The programmes were conducted at GSSS Lapathy where 373 students and 33 teachers participated, PM Shri GSS Mus where 434 students and 21 teachers attended, GSS Tamaloo with 147 students and 17 teachers, GSSS Malaca where 525 students and 32 teachers took part, GSS Kakana with 117 students and 17 teachers, and Primary School HQ where 224 students and 11 teachers were present. Altogether, a large number of students and teachers benefited from these sessions.
During the awareness programmes, the students and teachers were educated on understanding dog behaviour, recognising warning signs, safe practices while encountering stray dogs, immediate first aid measures after a dog bite including thorough washing of the wound with soap and running water, and the importance of seeking timely medical attention and anti-rabies vaccination. Emphasis was also laid on responsible behaviour towards animals and the role of the community in effective stray dog management.
The sessions were interactive and the participants showed keen interest by actively engaging in discussions and clarifying their doubts. The programmes aimed at creating awareness among school children at an early age so that they develop safe habits and contribute towards reducing dog bite incidents in their localities.
The Department of AH&VS remains committed to organising such awareness programmes in schools and communities across the Islands to promote public health, responsible behaviour towards animals, and effective prevention of dog bites and rabies, a press release from Dept. of AH&VS said.
