World Animal Day

By Madhushala Senaratne

Animals play a diverse role in our lives. They are our companions, protectors and they enrich our lives in many ways. We share a special relationship with animals.

" World Animal Day, which falls on October 4, celebrates this relationship between man and animal and celebrates animal life in all its forms," says Dr. Ganga de Silva, senior Vet Surgeon/ Coordinator of Blue Paw Trust.
“It also aims to raise greater awareness of issues relating to animals, their rights and our responsibilities towards them, she said.

‘Responsible pet ownership,’ is the message being conveyed by Blue Paw Trust to mark the World Animal Day in Sri Lanka this year. "It is important that people take care of their own pets. It is your responsibility to feed your pet, groom it and keep it healthy and clean," says Dr. Ganga.

Providing a safe and clean environment for your pet is also essential.

Animals protect us in many ways. Therefore it is important that we too protect the animals and provide them with basic needs such as food, shelter and water. Moreover it is vital that we show them love and build a better environment for both humans and animals.

How to take care of your pets

Provide them with food and water
* Pets need a balanced diet. Household scraps will not be sufficient to maintain good body weight or strong muscles. Sharp bones can be dangerous as they may become stuck in the throat or cause problems if swallowed.
* Fresh water should be given regularly in a clean bowl.

Shelter
* Give your pet a place to live. Protect it from the heat and cold weather. Provide them a safe environment.

Hygiene
* A pet that is kept in dirty conditions can become infested with worms, ticks, fleas or lice. Ask your vet for advice. Keep your pet and its living area clean.

Exercise and companionship
* Your pet should not be tied up, he needs regular exercise.
* A walk each day or perhaps a game with a stick or ball, will help keep your dog alert, active and healthy.

Grooming
* Regular brushing helps to keep your dog clean, free of tangles and provides an opportunity to check for unwanted parasites.
* It also helps to get your dog used to being handled.

Veterinary care and vaccination
* Pets are vulnerable to many diseases, which can be dangerous and costly to treat. Vaccination helps prevent illness and reduces the risk of infection to other dogs.

Breeding
* Every year hundreds of dogs are destroyed because there are not enough suitable homes available for them. To prevent unwanted puppies, have your dog spayed/neutered – an operation performed by a vet.