MADRAS—In a bid to readiness of country’s next generation of veterinarians undertook training to save animals during disasters.
A batch of 130 students from Tamil Nadu University of Veterinary and Animal Science (TANUVAS) recently attended a major Veterinary Emergency Response Unit (VERU) training exercise at the Madras Veterinary College, Chennai.
During the four-day training workshop, the final year veterinary students learnt different feed, water, safety and security measures for animals during emergencies. They were trained on animal handling techniques with live demonstrations, and joined in practical exercises.
Later this week, the students would participate in an evacuation drill at a coastal village, marking the end of the training, said the official.
The training session was jointly organized by World Animal Protection and TANUVAS, in association with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).
During the inaugural event, Dr. C Balachandran, Dean of Madras Veterinary College, TANUVAS said: “I thank World Animal Protection to have taken the initiative to train our students on animal handling techniques during disasters. This training will provide skilled veterinarians who are better equipped to protect animals’ lives in case of emergencies.”
Gajender Sharma, Country Director of World Animal Protection India, said: “The VERU training of veterinary graduates will develop special disaster handling skills, which will help in protecting animals and the people who depend on them.
“More trained veterinarians will be helping us to address the needs of animals in future disasters. This will eventually complement the government’s initiatives and help bridge the gaps in the disaster management cycle.”
India is susceptible to a range of disasters – from tsunamis and droughts, to cyclones, floods, landslides and earthquakes. During these disasters people and animals can suffer alike: thousands of animals lose their lives, and many are severely injured or become lost.
World Animal Protection works around the world to protect animals, whenever and wherever disasters happen. World Animal Protection has saved over 3 million animals in disasters over the last 50 years. We work with people, communities and governments to prepare for disasters and protect their animals in times of crisis.