KARACHI, June 18: Veterinary experts have urged pet owners to ensure adequate care of their animals and birds to prevent the transmission of diseases to humans.

Addressing a seminar organized by the Karachi Hospital for Animals here on Tuesday, the experts referred to anthrax, rabies and mad cow diseases as the immediate outcome of improper care with particular reference to poor hygienic standard along with irregular examination and vaccination of domestic animals and cattle.

Dr M.H. Chohan, speaking on the occasion, underscored the need for a proper policy with regard to rigorous surveillance of pens operating across the city, ensuring that not only proper hygienic conditions are maintained but cattle are regularly vaccinated against a variety of viruses.

He reminded that in all developed countries as well as in many developing ones, particular attention is extended towards quality and safety of the kind.

Dr Chohan reminded that it is during the monsoon season that many animals are inflicted with a wide range of ailments, often causing massive deaths.

As an intervention, he suggested the provision for en masse vaccination prior to the rains. The measures, he said, are also important since these are an important source to earn foreign exchange through their bi-products.

Dr Arif Saleem Memon, Director, Karachi Hospital for Animals, suggested concerted efforts to raise public awareness about the issue, ensuring that care of pets and cattle is duly undertaken.

Dr Memon also stressed the need for encouragement and opportunities for regular training programmes for vets in the country.

The speakers warned locals that negligence on their part may turn their pets into a major threat for not only them but their children as well, alongwith other members of their community.—APP