SRINAGAR, FEBRUARY 3: Dr. S. Altaf Gilani, Superintendent of Central Veterinary Hospital, along with other officials, addressed a press conference to clarify recent misconceptions regarding pet management in Kashmir. The conference was organized in response to concerns triggered by a misleadingly edited clip from a podcast, which had caused unnecessary panic among pet owners in the region.
Dr. Gilani emphasized the necessity of mandatory deworming and vaccination for pets, highlighting their role in preventing zoonotic diseases—ailments that can be transmitted from animals to humans. He also stressed the importance of pet hygiene, advocating for regular grooming, cleanliness, and veterinary check-ups to safeguard both pet and public health. He noted that the hospital’s outpatient department (OPD) treats approximately 50,000 cases annually, with numbers surging to 450,000 this year. He also acknowledged the contributions of NGOs and animal welfare organizations in assisting abandoned, diseased, and distressed animals.
Dr. Anwar Hussain Nagoo, Media Liaison Officer, informed the press that the conference was held at the direction of the Director of the Animal Husbandry Department. He urged pet owners in Kashmir to remain informed about best practices in pet care to mitigate the risks associated with zoonotic diseases while fostering a safe environment for both animals and humans. The conference also highlighted the increasing trend of pet ownership in Kashmir, underscoring the need for greater awareness of responsible pet management. With more people adopting pets, it has become essential to educate them on their responsibilities to ensure pets are properly cared for and remain in good health.
A key focus of the discussion was the concept of “One Health,” which acknowledges the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. By implementing responsible pet management practices and ensuring timely medical care for animals, the community as a whole benefits. The One Health approach encourages collaboration between veterinary medicine, public health, and environmental science to comprehensively address health-related issues. Officials reiterated their commitment to promoting responsible pet ownership and urged pet owners to prioritize their pets’ health through proper medical care and hygiene.