Woof, meaow and sneeze

BANGALORE: Although monsoon brings joy and the much-needed relief from the long spell of sweltering heat, the cooling showers, make you susceptible to a lot of diseases that are peculiar this season only.These diseases are not only limited to man but also pets,wild animals and birds. In fact, wild birds and animals are most vulnerable to diseases like cold, pneumonia and viral fever. It is high time we took up some measures so that even these wild animals are geared up completely this season.City Express speaks to a few veterinarians in Bangalore and finds out the common diseases prevalent during the season and also the necessary precautions that can be taken.Dr Sanjeev, a veterinarian in one of the animal clinics in the city, told City Express, “The wild birds and animals can attract viral fever during monsoon in case they get wet. It is very important to dry them up quickly and keep them warm. The animals in the zoo have a very good shelter, hence, their is a minimal opportunity for them to get wet. On top of it, the authorities take initiative to increase the resistance of animals by adding multi- vitamin tonics to the water they drink.”Voicing a similar opinion, Dr Amarnath, a veterinarian said, “Irrespective of the species, all animals are prone to cold, fever and pneumonia during the monsoon period. They are also easily susceptible to footpad infection, which is known as the interdigital pyoderma, in the world of animals. This is a disease common among birds especially.”As far as precaution for the said disease is concerned, Dr Amarnath further added, “The basic safeguard that can be taken to avoid such uncertainty is to wipe the foot everyday and keep it dry and in case they are afflicted by the infection, antiseptic lotions can be applied on the infected area.”The Executive Director of Bannerghatta National Park, Dr Raju said, “We undertake periodic check up of all the birds and animals in the zoo to avoid any kind of disease that monsoon might bring upon them. They are vaccinated periodically and once in a quarter, all kinds of tests are conducted to ensure their full health. We try to maintain the temperature for them by using coolers during summer and heaters during winter.”