The Department of Animal Production and Health (DAPH) expressed concern over the of water scarcity during this dry weather period and said the current situation has badly affected not only humans even to animals, especially stray dogs and other animals living on the streets.
DAPH Director Dr. Hemali Kothalawala said in addition, the countrywide water scarcity has affected animals such as cattle, donkeys and goats living in almost all parts of the country.
According to the Meteorology Department, the current capacity of water tanks, especially in Labugama and Kalatuwawa are gradually declining and rains could be expected within the next two months.
Meanwhile, the area health officials say that scarcity of water will also help to increase diseases such as rabies and request Local Government authorities as well as the public to provide water to animals that are going astray on the roads, considering that it will help to reduce animal diseases.
Quoting statistics the Sri Lanka Veterinary Association (SLVA) also says that the rabies related deaths in the country are increasing due to various reasons.
According to SLVA the public should vaccinate their pet pups and dogs at the correct time to avoid this dangerous disease.
The Health Department statistics around 25 to 30 rabies related deaths are reported every year from various parts of the country.
SLVA, Public Health Veterinary Service, Director Dr. L. P. Kithsiri said rabies disease is affected not only from pups and dogs but also from other animals such as kittens, cats, jackals as well as from small creatures like rats and coots.
He warns people if a pup, dog or any other wild animal bites a person the injured area should be thoroughly washed with soap and thereafter the patient should be immediately taken to a Government hospital for necessary treatments.
Ananda Kannangara