Animals vulnerable to various diseases

Veterinary doctors say they can suffer from diarrhoea and Gal Ghotu due to uncleanliness

LAHORE: It's been almost a week since the city received heavy rains, but the Lahore Zoo administration has not cleared standing water which poses a threat to various animals. The water can provide a breeding ground for various diseases.

According to veterinary doctors, animals can suffer from diarrhoea and Gal Ghotu diseases due to the lack of cleanliness. There is a need to make special arrangements for them during monsoon season.

Lahore Zoo is among many other recreational spots where rainwater is still accumulated even a week after heavy rains in the city. Animals are living in dirty surroundings and are likely to catch diseases.



An official at the zoo, requesting anonymity, told The Express Tribune that around 1,000 birds have been shifted to a yet to be fully constructed veterinary hospital at the zoo over the last few days. All the while, rainwater remains accumulated in the animals' cages.

"The rainy season is very dangerous for animals, especially grazing animals. In this season, animals have diseases in their feet and mouth. They can also get skin diseases due to stagnant rainwater," said veterinary Doctor Khalid Maqsood.

Dr Maqsood said zoo animals were vaccinated in developed countries during the rainy season. "Just like human beings, animals also need proper care.

There is a need for the zoo administration to focus on proper diet, cleanliness and vaccination of animals so that they stay healthy.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 8^th, 2018.