TANUVAS to train veterinarians in animal birth control, says V-C

As the increasing number of stray dogs becomes a major concern for the public and the government, the Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (TANUVAS) has launched a programme to train more veterinarians in animal birth control, said Vice-Chancellor R. Narendra Babu.

“The government is making every effort to find a solution to the problem, and TANUVAS began a programme on September 23 to train veterinarians in animal birth control surgical procedures. By March next year, 500 veterinarians will be fully equipped to participate in the animal birth control programme,” he said, while participating in the Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Lectures and Wet Labs organised jointly by TANUVAS and the Chennai Small Animal Veterinarians Association (CSAVA).

Dr. Narendra Babu said that though TANUVAS had experts and surgeons, their number was insufficient to address the scale of the issue. “We are ready to provide training to any veterinarians interested in gaining knowledge and surgical skills. Veterinarians in private practice are also welcome to join the programme,” he said.

He noted that neutering male dogs was relatively easy, whereas the surgical procedure for female dogs was more complex and time-consuming. “The animals also require post-surgical care. We are, therefore, working with the Greater Chennai Corporation, which will provide shelter after surgery, as well as the Animal Husbandry department and the Animal Welfare Board,” he said.

Dr. Narendra Babu added that retired veterinarians could also support the government’s efforts in the animal birth control programme. “We need the support of private veterinary associations to achieve our goal. Our focus is on controlling the animal population and ensuring vaccination for animals,” he said.

He further stated that humans had domesticated dogs, and over time, they had become companions. “Today, pet breeding has become an industry. Elderly people need dogs as companions. We must take all these aspects into account and work accordingly,” he said.

Registrar of TANUVAS, R. Anilkumar, noted that the number of people with pet animals had increased following the COVID-19 pandemic, creating a greater need for their care. “Although the University is equipped with advanced treatment procedures and has the necessary faculty and expertise, it alone cannot provide all the care needed. We are here to provide training,” he said.

At the event, U.S.-based veterinarian Terry King gave a lecture on veterinary emergency and critical care, as well as emergency drugs and dosages.

Satheshkumar, Dean of Madras Veterinary College (MVC), G.R. Bharanidharan, President of CSAVA, and Mohamed Ali, Treasurer of CSAVA, also participated.