DODA, SEPTEMBER 28: The Animal Husbandry Department Doda organized today organised free Anti-Rabies Vaccination Drive at District Veterinary Hospital (DVH) and an awareness programme on World Rabies Day 2026 here at Government Boys Higher Secondary School themed “Stronger Together.”
District Development Commissioner (DDC) Krishan Lal was the Chief Guest at the awareness event.
Chief Animal Husbandry Officer Dr. Irfan Ali Wani; Chief Education Officer Bhushan Kumar Pathak; School Head, Dr. Rishi Kumar Manhas; VAS, DVH Dr. Ranju Balla and Technical Officer to CAHO Dr. Ahatsham-ul-Haq were also present.
The DDC highlighted the importance of generating awareness among students and staff on prevention of dog bites and its Post exposure prophylaxis. He said the campaign has been launched across the Country on the directions of the Supreme Court of India. He also emphasized the importance of community participation in minimizing the threat of rabies.
Veterinary Surgeon Dr. Ranju Balla delivered an insightful lecture to sensitize the students and teaching staff to the threat of rabies, its transmission, prevention, and responsible behaviour around animals. He stressed on the importance of seeking timely vaccines after an animal bite or scratch.
The participants were specifically advised to immediately wash the bite or scratch wound thoroughly with soap and running water and seek medical attention without delay for appropriate Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP).
The programme emphasized that rabies prevention requires coordinated efforts of the Animal Husbandry, Health and Education Departments, local administration and the community, in keeping with the spirit of this year’s theme, “Stronger Together.”
Meanwhile, during the vaccination drive, dogs and cats were vaccinated free of cost against rabies, providing an important preventive measure for pets and community animals. Pet owners and members of the general public visiting the hospital were also sensitized about rabies, its mode of transmission, prevention and the importance of timely medical attention following an animal bite or scratch.
The veterinary experts advised pet owners to ensure regular vaccination of their animals and adopt responsible pet ownership practices. The public was also informed about the importance of immediately washing bite or scratch wounds thoroughly with soap and running water and seeking medical attention promptly for appropriate Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP).
Earlier, the programme was inaugurated by Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Anil Kumar Thakur as the Chief Guest.
The ADC interacted with the veterinary staff and reviewed the facilities and services being provided at the hospital. He also inspected the availability of medicines and other essential supplies and took stock of the overall functioning of the hospital.
