Chennai Launches Rabies Vaccination Drive for Stray Dogs

Chennai: The Greater Chennai Corporation will launch a major vaccination drive for stray dogs today (August 11), providing rabies vaccines and internal and external deworming medication.

30 Teams to Conduct Vaccination

Stray dogs will be captured zone- and division-wise and vaccinated by veterinary doctors. They will then be marked with coloured dye and released at the same location. Around 30 teams have been deployed, with plans to vaccinate approximately 3,000 dogs a day.

1.47 Lakh Dogs Already Vaccinated

During last year`s special drive, 1,47,545 stray dogs in Chennai Corporation limits were given rabies vaccines and deworming medication. This year, free rabies vaccination will also be provided for pet dogs and cats.

2 Lakh Dogs to Be Vaccinated in 75 Days

The drive will initially begin in Zones 1, 2 and 4 and will subsequently cover all zones. Around 2 lakh dogs are expected to receive rabies vaccination and deworming medication within 75 working days.

Aim for a Rabies Free Chennai

The campaign is being carried out with the support of doctors and trainee veterinarians from Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (TANUVAS) and Worldwide Veterinary Services (WVS).

The Greater Chennai Corporation has appealed to the public, pet owners and animal welfare activists to cooperate in achieving the goal of a “Rabies-Free Chennai.”