Campbell Bay, Aug. 7: With dog-bite incidents posing a continuing public-health concern, the Department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AH&VS) conducted an awareness programme at Government Senior Secondary School (GSSS), Campbell Bay, focusing on prevention of dog bites, safe behaviour around animals and prompt management of animal-bite cases.
The programme, aimed at sensitising students and teachers about responsible interaction with dogs and the importance of timely medical intervention, was attended by 58 Class XI students and six teachers.
During the interactive session, participants were briefed on understanding dog behaviour, recognising warning signs and following appropriate dos and don’ts while encountering unfamiliar dogs. Special emphasis was placed on avoiding provocation, maintaining a safe distance and refraining from actions that could trigger aggressive behaviour in animals.
The participants were also educated on the immediate steps to be taken following a dog bite. They were advised to wash the wound thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes, inform parents, elders or teachers immediately, and seek medical attention without delay. The importance of timely Anti-Rabies Vaccination (ARV) was also highlighted.
The session witnessed active participation from the students, who raised questions and sought clarification on various aspects of dog-bite prevention and management.
The programme also underlined the importance of responsible behaviour towards animals and the role of the community in addressing issues related to stray dogs.
The AH&VS Department has been conducting similar awareness programmes in schools across the Islands as part of efforts to promote public health, responsible animal behaviour and greater awareness about prevention of dog bites and rabies among students and the wider community.
