Vaccination under way at Lahore Zoo
Children offering grass to herbivores in Lahore zoo. Government plans to micro-chip all the animals in provincial zoos and wildlife parks for their real-time monitoring. PHOTO: APP
Large-scale vaccination and various medical tests are being carried out at Lahore Zoo to protect various birds, lions and tigers from weather effects, epidemics and diseases.
Lahore Zoo Director Mohammad Anwar Maan told The Express Tribune that when the weather changes, it affects not only humans but also animals and birds.
During this transition, many epidemics spread, the zoo director further said.
“Animals and birds are being vaccinated at the Lahore Zoo to protect them from these possible epidemics. CBC, LFT, RFT tests have been done on various animals including lions and they are being given various injections and medicines.”
Blood samples have also been taken from these animals, he elaborated.
He stated that this is done every three to four months, which has resulted in a significant reduction in animal and bird mortality.
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He explained that some time ago in Lahore Zoo and Safari Park, many lions had died due to blood parasite, Tripersona.
“Therefore, we now continue to conduct their blood test so that early warning can be obtained before any disease strikes.”
According to the zoo management officials, blood sampling and injection of animals, especially big cats, was a very difficult task. “An injection gun is used for some animals while there is a special room for lions and tigers where these animals can be easily checked in the built cage.”
Published in The Express Tribune, October 11th, 2021.