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Veterinary Doctors Raise Alarm Over Rising Dog Attacks and Deaths in Nigeria
- Veterinary Doctors raise alarm over dog attacks and deaths in Nigeria
- They named pet owners’ irresponsibility as one of the causes
- They urged the government to review canine laws and enforce them
Veterinary doctors in Nigeria are expressing growing concern over the increasing incidents of dog attacks and fatalities across the country. The Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA) has raised alarms, highlighting the need for better regulation of pet ownership to protect public health.
Dr. Gani Enahoro, the former National President of the NVMA, emphasized that dogs should be responsibly kept by their owners to prevent them from becoming threats to human safety.
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He noted that while dog ownership is common, many pet owners fail to ensure their animals are properly contained and cared for, leading to tragic consequences.
He also pointed out that attacks by stray dogs are on the rise, with some victims dying as a result of injuries inflicted by these animals.
Dr. Enahoro called for the government to enforce dog laws, some of which were first established during the colonial era but have since been overlooked. He commended Delta State, which is revising its own dog laws to reflect modern realities and enhance public safety.
According to Enahoro, dogs are integral to public health due to their close interaction with humans, making it crucial for their care and management to be taken seriously.
A significant concern raised by Enahoro is the risk of rabies transmission through dog bites. Rabies, a deadly viral disease, is a growing threat in Nigeria, with several cases recently reported.
Enahoro urged both pet owners and medical professionals to work together in preventing the spread of rabies. He emphasized the importance of regular anti-rabies vaccinations for dogs, which can be up to 90% effective in preventing the disease.
He also recommended that victims of dog bites seek immediate medical attention, where healthcare providers should collaborate with veterinarians to assess the risk of rabies and ensure appropriate treatment.
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Enahoro stressed the need for better coordination between human and veterinary healthcare to address the public health implications of dog attacks effectively.
With increasing reports of dog-related fatalities, the NVMA is calling for greater vigilance and stricter enforcement of animal control laws to safeguard the well-being of Nigerians.
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