TN reports 5.25 lac dog bites; experts urge pet owners to act against rabies

Daijiworld Media Network – Chennai

Chennai, Nov 21: With 5.25 lac dog bite cases and 28 rabies deaths reported in Tamil Nadu this year, the Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine has urged strict preventive measures, stressing that rabies — though almost always fatal after symptoms appear — is fully preventable with timely action.

Since most human rabies cases in India arise from dog bites, authorities have called on pet owners to follow responsible practices to protect families and communities.

Key measures for pet owners to reduce rabies risk

• Vaccinate pets on schedule:

Ensure dogs and cats receive timely rabies shots and boosters. Keep vaccination certificates handy in both physical and digital form for clinics, travel or boarding.

• Support sterilisation and co