Veterinary hospitals running out of doctors despite increase in number of pets

Monday 24 January, 2022 | 1:02 AM READ MALAYALAM VERSION

KOLLAM: Despite the proliferation of pet animals, government veterinary hospitals are running out of doctors. There are no doctors in 50 veterinary hospitals and dispensaries.

Dispensaries have a veterinary surgeon and veterinary hospitals have a senior veterinary surgeon. The day the doctor is on leave is also a day off at the veterinary hospital.

Night clinics were started by appointing doctors on a temporary basis. Clinics are closing one by one as doctors are leaving work due to low salaries.

OP to cross one crore

The number of pets and birds being treated at veterinary hospitals is increasing by ten lakh or more each year. Looking at next year's figures, it may cross one crore.

Many who lost their jobs in the Covid crisis have turned to animal husbandry. There are also breeders who bring in dogs and cats from abroad.

2018-19 - 67 lakhs

2019-20 - 77 lakhs

2020-21 - 90 lakhs

Government Doctors

1186: Veterinary Surgeon

384: Senior Veterinary Surgeon / Asst. Director

65: Chief Medical Officer / Deputy Director

24: District Animal Husbandry Officer / Joint Director

01: Additional Director

For treatment

869: Dispensaries